Dominik Mysterio Reveals Why He Broke Lucha Libre Tradition By Not Wearing a Mask

One Big Thing

WWE Superstar Dominik Mysterio has addressed the controversial decision to forgo wearing a traditional lucha libre mask, breaking from a centuries-old wrestling tradition that his father, Rey Mysterio, helped popularize in mainstream American wrestling.

Why It Matters

The decision marks a significant departure from lucha libre tradition and highlights the evolving nature of wrestling heritage in modern WWE. It also underscores how early exposure to television can impact a wrestler’s career trajectory.

By The Numbers

• Dominik’s first TV appearance: Age 3 (WCW)
• Regular WWE appearances began: Age 8
• Current age: 26

Key Details

• Dominik revealed in an interview with Chris Van Vliet that WWE seriously considered having him wear a mask
• His early television exposure made masking impractical, as fans already knew his face
• Previous storylines, including segments with Rey Mysterio and Brock Lesnar, had already established his identity

Direct Quote

“My situation was very different since I was already on TV by the time I was eight years old. Honestly, even before that, I’ve seen clips of me getting tagged in matches from the WCW days when I was about three years old. My face has been out there for years.”

Current Status

Dominik continues to establish himself as one of WWE’s top heel performers, currently involved in a high-profile storyline with Liv Morgan on Monday Night RAW.

Looking Ahead

The decision to perform unmasked has allowed Dominik to create his own identity separate from his father’s legacy, while still acknowledging his lucha libre heritage.

What do you think about Dominik’s decision to break from tradition and perform without a mask? Share your thoughts in the comments below!