Rey Mysterio Discusses WWE Hall Of Fame, What's Left For Him In Career
Before his home state of California, Rey Mysterio was formally inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame on March 31, 2023. In doing so, Mysterio also marked a rarity in WWE history, as he is one of just a few names to receive this honor while still actively wrestling. During a recent interview with "Busted Open Radio," Mysterio opened up about the opportunity to now be a part of these hallowed halls.
"When I was offered that position, I thought they were asking for a retirement," Mysterio said. "I straight up told [WWE CCO Triple H], 'I'm not ready to retire.' He goes, 'No, you're not. We don't want you to retire. We just think it's the best place, it being in LA, your backyard.' I was like, 'Wow.' I felt like they gifted me with the biggest gift in the world. When you've committed your life to this business for 35 years, that's like the one token that kind of certifies you for everything that you've done."
As Mysterio pointed out, the 2023 WWE Hall of Fame induction ceremony emanated from the city of Los Angeles, just two hours north of his hometown of Chula Vista. The general state of California holds additional memories for Mysterio as well, as much of his early wrestling career was spent wrestling in bars around Hollywood.
In the present day, Rey is a native of the "WWE Raw" brand alongside his son, Dominik Mysterio. Though they may now be enemies on screen, Rey is proud to know that the Mysterio name will continue on for many more years. "To see my son travel in his own journey, the name is very alive, and it will stay alive for hopefully more generations," Rey said.
What Is Next For The Legendary Luchador?
With Rey Mysterio now at 49 years old, many wrestling fans have painted question marks around the future of his in-ring career. Mysterio previously circled the age of 50 as a potential retirement age, but in recent months, he has openly considered wrestling a few years beyond that point. Regardless of when that specific date may come, an important question still remains — what is left for the legendary luchador to accomplish in the meantime?
"I think what's left is to be able to plan a nice sunset and be able to thank everyone that has followed and supported me throughout the years," Mysterio said. "Give them, when the time is right, a good farewell, not something that happens one time and then I come back and then do it again. Maybe even like a farewell tour, but something that can mean something to me and to everyone that will be there, whether it's in every city or in a country. [They know] this is the last time we will be together."
While fans wait for more updates on the possible retirement tour of Rey Mysterio, one of his former opponents, that being 16-time world John Cena, will soon embark on one of his own. Cena's farewell ride will officially begin in January 2025 and end in December 2025, with about 36 dates in between.
If you use any of the quotes in this article, please credit "Busted Open Radio" with a h/t to Wrestling Inc. for the transcription.