Prime Years: 1996 - 98 & 2002 - 06 Why He Should Be Studied: Rey Mysterio was never thought to have a shot in mainstream US wrestling. After initially impressive WCW head honcho Eric Bischoff at AAA's When Worlds Collide PPV in 1994, the master of the 619 was then brought to WCW in the summer of 1996. When he got there, many wrestlers scoffed and asked what 'the kid' was doing in the locker room. Then he wrestled an absolute blinder with Dean Malenko at the Great American Bash PPV, and those same sceptics were giving Rey a standing ovation. Rey's performances were routinely the in-ring highlights of WCW cards. One of Rey's biggest strengths was that he could have a good match with anyone and, when up against much larger opponents, still managed to make it appear believable. There aren't many smaller guys that can do that as well as Rey. Even when he moved to WWE in 2002, he still had his doubters, who felt he'd have even less chance of succeeding in Vince's company. Rey proved them all wrong yet again, becoming a bonafide main eventer and sure-fire future Hall of Famer. Once again, it was the consistency and believability of his ring work that earned him respect (and millions of fans). Any current WWE star who employs a high-flying style should order their 'Best of Rey Mysterio' DVD today (here's looking at you, Kalisto).
