Rey Mysterio stands as one of the most iconic figures in the storied history of WWE. From his high-flying acrobatics to his indomitable spirit, he has captivated audiences around the globe for decades.
However, his journey has not been without its trials and tribulations. One such challenge arose following Crown Jewel 2023, where Mysterio found himself sidelined due to injury, inflicted by none other than his former friend and stablemate, Santos Escobar.
Since then, Mysterio has largely been absent from television screens, leaving fans eagerly awaiting his return. That anticipation reached a fever pitch when rumors began swirling of his imminent comeback to Friday Night SmackDown.
Those rumors were confirmed last week when Mysterio made a surprise appearance, coming to the aid of Carlito in his battle against Escobar.
Now, as Mysterio prepares to address the WWE Universe once more, speculation runs rampant regarding his intentions. What will the legendary masked wrestler have to say upon his return? And more importantly, what actions will he take now that he’s healthy and ready to compete once more?
Here, we explore four potential avenues that Mysterio could pursue upon his return to WWE SmackDown:
1. Officially Adding Dragon Lee to the LWO
One of the most exciting prospects upon Mysterio’s return is the potential addition of Dragon Lee to the ranks of the Latino World Order (LWO).
Lee, a highly talented performer in his own right, has been mentored by Mysterio and has garnered praise from fans and veterans alike. While Lee has been informally associated with the LWO, his official induction into the faction has yet to occur on WWE television.
However, recent commentary from Corey Graves and Wade Barrett has hinted at Lee’s affiliation. Mysterio’s return could mark the perfect opportunity to formally welcome Lee into the fold, solidifying the bond between mentor and protege.
2. Challenging Santos Escobar to a WrestleMania Showdown
The animosity between Rey Mysterio and Santos Escobar has been simmering ever since Escobar’s betrayal led to Mysterio’s injury. Now that Mysterio is back in action, there’s no doubt that he’ll be seeking retribution.
Big mistake. pic.twitter.com/scfMHfKIT6
— SANTOS ESCOBAR💀🇲🇽 (@EscobarWWE) March 2, 2024
What better stage for a showdown than WrestleMania? Mysterio could issue a challenge to Escobar, setting the stage for a highly anticipated one-on-one match at The Show of Shows.
The prospect of Mysterio facing off against the man who sidelined him promises to be a thrilling encounter, with WrestleMania serving as the perfect backdrop for their long-awaited clash.
3. LWO vs. Legado del Fantasma
Beyond the personal vendetta between Mysterio and Escobar lies a broader conflict for dominance between the Latino World Order and the rival faction, Legado del Fantasma.
EXCLUSIVE: After being stunned by @reymysterio's surprise return, @EscobarWWE and the rest of Legado del Fantasma vow to take out The Master of the 619 for good. #SmackDown pic.twitter.com/IXAVc1LNob
— WWE (@WWE) March 2, 2024
The tension between the two groups has been brewing for some time, and Mysterio’s return could escalate the feud to new heights.
Rather than seeking individual retribution, Mysterio could propose a larger-scale confrontation, pitting the LWO against Legado del Fantasma in a multi-person tag team match at WrestleMania.
Such a match would not only provide a platform for Mysterio to settle the score with Escobar but would also showcase the collective strength of both factions in a high-stakes battle for supremacy.
4. Seeking Peace Through Unity
Alternatively, Mysterio could take a more diplomatic approach to the conflict between the LWO and Legado del Fantasma.
Instead of escalating hostilities, he could seek to broker peace between the warring factions, envisioning a future where they stand united.
Drawing parallels to negotiations between rival syndicates, Mysterio could advocate for a merger between the two groups, forging a powerful alliance within WWE.
— SANTOS ESCOBAR💀🇲🇽 (@EscobarWWE) February 3, 2024
Such a move would not only bring an end to the conflict but would also create a formidable force capable of taking on any challenge that comes their way.
