Former World Heavy Weight Champion Rey Mysterio Jr, who is in Mumbai to promote World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE), says determination is the key to get into WWE.
Former World Heavy Weight Champion Rey Mysterio Jr, who is in Mumbai to promote World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE), says determination is the key to get into WWE. That apart, this multi-talented Mexican was more than flattered by the response he received from fans, especially children, in Mumbai. Shweta Karnik spoke to this masked wrestler about his inspiration, contemporaries and life.
What prompted you to join WWE?
My uncle Rey Mysterio Sr was my greatest inspiration. As a child, I used to watch him wrestle - he used to get beat up, bleed and fall unconscious in the process. But even then, he would stand on his feet in the very next match. Since the age of five I started going to the gym with my uncle. I used to watch him work out, train students in wrestling and perform live. That’s when I developed this passion for the sport. My uncle trained me initially and believe me it was the hardest time of my life.
He treated me like an equal. I still remember that I would burst into tears due to the pain and agony of wrestling with him but he would refuse to even look at me if I faired badly. Once, when I told him that it was a painful sport, he told me that wasn’t child’s play. His précised words were: “If you are in it you have to fight it out.” That’s what got me hooked to the sport. This is my 18th year of wrestling and I have been playing official matches since the age of 15. I have never thought of anything besides wrestling. It is in my blood and is my passion. I worship the sport.
Who according to you is the best wrestler?
Oh it’s a long list. You have David Batista, Undertaker, Chavo Guerrero, Triple H, Shawn Michaels, Kurt Angle, Randy Orton and many more. You must also understand that every wrestler has his unique style of functioning.
Tell us something about your experience in Mumbai?
Whenever I visit any new place, I’ve found myself welcomed into a whole new world. I experienced the same warmth when I landed in Mumbai.
Would you encourage your son Dominic to take up wrestling?
I’d love for him to take up the sport. Currently he is interested in soccer and American football.
Did you face any resistance from your parents when you first announced your decision to join wrestling?
Like all moms, my mother did not want to see her youngest son bleed or cry in agony. But my father encouraged me.
Why do you always sport a mask?
My uncle designed this mask. My name has a lot to do with the mask. Rey means King and Mysterio stands for mystery. So, it translates to ‘King of Mystery’.
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