Rey Mysterio Reveals He Was Mulling In-Ring Retirement Before Dominik Mysterio Decided to Pursue Pro Wrestling

WWE Hall of Famer Rey Mysterio recently revealed that he was about to hang up his boots five or six years ago before his son, Dominik’s, desire to break into the wrestling business inspired him to keep going.

Dominik Mysterio made his WWE in-ring debut at SummerSlam 2020, where he battled Seth Rollins in a Street Fight. He subsequently formed a tag team with his father and went on to win the WWE Tag Team Championship.

However, Dom shockingly turned on Rey at Clash at the Castle 2022 and joined forces with The Judgment Day. The two have since been embroiled in a hugely entertaining rivalry.

However, it nearly didn’t happen, as during a recent appearance on The Late Run, Rey Mysterio revealed that he almost quit wrestling due to feeling burned out a few years ago. It was only after Dominik expressed his intention to break into the business that Rey decided to continue.

Here’s what Rey Mysterio said:

“I actually do remember a point that happened in my life. Not too long ago, maybe about five or six years, I just wasn’t getting that same emotion when I would step into the ring. I think my body was burnt out mentally and physically. I told my wife, I remember sitting down with her and telling her, ‘I just don’t feel what I would always feel every time I would step into the ring; I think I’m going to tap out. I just don’t feel it anymore.’ Shortly after, my son told me that he wanted to try and break into the business. Seeing him or helping him get on board kind of just inspired or ignited me that fire once again, and it’s been going since.”

Check out his comments below:

Rey and Dominik had a memorable match at WrestleMania 39, where the legendary luchador emerged victorious. They have since battled several times in multi-person matches in WWE and AAA. Dominik has come a long way since then, having become one of the most hated heels in pro wrestling. He is currently in possession of the AAA Mega Championship. Meanwhile, Rey was in action on this week’s WWE RAW, challenging Penta for the Intercontinental Championship in a losing cause.

Please credit The Late Run and give an H/T to 411Mania for the transcription if you take quotes from this copy.