The Mexican wrestling community is grieving the loss of legendary wrestler Miguel Ángel López Díaz, who was famously known as Rey Misterio Sr. The announcement by Rey Mysterio Jr.’s son shocked fans and wrestlers online. He was 66, and his cause of death remains undisclosed. Former NBA star Evan Turner, a combat sports fan, joined the wave of condolences with a sincere revelation in connection to the late icon.

Son Rey Mysterio Jr. Wrote, “Friends and family, I’m sad to share that my father, Miguel Ángel López Días, Rey Misterio Sr., passed away this morning… more updates to come. Thank you.” As soon as the post went live, an outpouring of love and condolences flooded in. Fellow wrestlers, fans, and celebrities expressed their support, demonstrating how deeply López Días touched lives, both in and out of the ring.

Soon after that, Evan Turner took to his official X with a touching homage. “Rest in peace to Rey Mysterio,” he began before confessing, “I’ve almost killed myself plenty of nights trying to do what you do!” Turner’s words resonated deeply, showing his admiration for the craft and physicality of professional wrestling.

Turner’s fan side we observed in 2020 when he expressed wanting to take on Jake Paul after Paul beat Robinson by second-round knockout at the Staples Center in Los Angeles.

Not only Tuner, Lucha Libre AAA Worldwide, the wrestling company where Rey Misterio Sr. built a significant part of his career, also honored the fallen star. They expressed their condolences, reflecting on his monumental contributions to the sport. They wrote, “We are saddened by the passing of Miguel Ángel López Días… We send our sincerest condolences.”

Rey Misterio Sr.’s passing marks the end of an era, but his legacy remains immortal.

Rey Misterio Sr.’s undying legacy

Many wrestling organizations, particularly Lucha Libre AAA Worldwide, where Rey Misterio Sr. made his biggest mark, have poured in their heartfelt tributes following the news of his passing. As a legendary figure in the world of professional wrestling, his death left a significant void in the community.

Besides his major role in Mexican wrestling, Rey Misterio Sr. played an essential part in introducing and popularizing the Lucha Libre style across international borders. His wrestling career extended beyond the local scene, reaching the now-defunct World Championship Wrestling (WCW). Representing Mexico, Rey Misterio Sr. alongside Konnan took part in the prestigious Pat O’Connor Memorial International Cup tournament. Their teamwork earned them a solid second-round finish, though they ultimately fell short to the Steiner Brothers.

Aside from his incredible matches, Rey Misterio Sr. was also a mentor to many emerging wrestling stars, including his nephew, WWE superstar Rey Mysterio. The WWE superstar credits his uncle with not only giving him his iconic ring name but also with being his guiding figure in the wrestling world. Under Rey Sr.’s mentorship, he was trained alongside some of the finest wrestlers in Mexico, such as Psicosis, Halloween, and Konnan.

Interestingly, Rey Misterio Sr. didn’t start his career in wrestling. Initially pursuing boxing, he turned to professional wrestling after a career-ending arm injury. Following the advice of his trainers, he made his debut on January 6, 1976, during a special “Day of Kings” event. This shift proved to be the beginning of something historic, as he quickly became synonymous with Mexican wrestling.