Wrestling politics just dealt a crushing blow to fans hoping to see La Faccion Ingobernable shine on home turf. As AEW prepares for their groundbreaking Arena Mexico debut next week, the absence of Rush and Dralistico from the historic shows has left the wrestling world buzzing about old grudges that refuse to die.
AEW’s Mexican Invasion Hits a Roadblock
All Elite Wrestling’s ambitious Mexican venture kicks off next week with a full slate of collaborative events alongside CMLL at the legendary Arena Mexico. The week-long celebration includes Ring of Honor action on June 17, AEW Dynamite’s Grand Slam Mexico edition on June 18, and New Japan Pro Wrestling wrapping things up on June 20.
While AEW’s roster of luchadors was expected to play starring roles in these homecoming shows, two notable names are conspicuously absent from the festivities. The exclusion of La Faccion Ingobernable members Rush and Dralistico has sparked fan outrage and demands for answers.
Dralistico Breaks His Silence
Taking to social media platform X, Dralistico addressed the controversy head-on, offering clarity to disappointed supporters. His message, posted in Spanish, carried the weight of years of unresolved tension.
“These are CMLL policies and rules that must be respected. We are happy where we are. If tomorrow AEW sends us to defend the flag, we will gladly do so. In the meantime, an apology to all the fans who thought the LFI would be at that event.”
The statement reveals the diplomatic tightrope AEW must walk when collaborating with promotions that harbor deep-seated animosity toward certain talent.
The 2019 Incident That Changed Everything
The root of this exclusion traces back to a pivotal moment in 2019 that forever altered the relationship between Rush and CMLL. When “El Toro Blanco” chose to prioritize Ring of Honor’s Death Before Dishonor pay-per-view over CMLL’s prestigious 86th Anniversary show, he unknowingly lit a fuse that continues to burn today.
Rush’s public declaration that both he and brother Dragon Lee were finished with CMLL triggered an immediate and harsh response. The promotion fired both wrestlers, creating a rift that has persisted despite the interconnected nature of modern wrestling partnerships.
Dralistico, who was portraying the iconic Mistico character at the time, initially remained loyal to CMLL. However, family bonds eventually proved stronger than corporate allegiances, leading to his 2021 departure to AAA to reunite with his brothers.
Forbidden Door Remains Locked
The enduring nature of this feud became crystal clear during last summer’s Forbidden Door pay-per-view. Despite AEW’s working relationships with both CMLL and New Japan Pro Wrestling, Rush was notably absent from the card due to CMLL talent participation.
The irony wasn’t lost on observers when Mistico—now portrayed by a different wrestler—teamed with The Lucha Brothers, who maintain strong ties to CMLL’s rival promotion AAA. This highlighted the complex web of alliances and grudges that continue to shape modern lucha libre.
Business Before Brotherhood
AEW’s decision to honor CMLL’s wishes demonstrates the delicate balance required when working with established promotions that have their own historical baggage. While disappointing for fans, it showcases the respect AEW maintains for their international partners’ boundaries.
La Faccion Ingobernable’s absence from these historic shows serves as a stark reminder that some wrestling feuds extend far beyond storylines. As AEW makes history in Arena Mexico, will this diplomatic approach eventually open doors for reconciliation, or are some bridges permanently burned in the unforgiving world of lucha libre politics?
