Dominik Mysterio‘s rise and challenges in WWE have been marked by uncertainty and skepticism, even from his own father, Rey Mysterio. Despite initial hesitation about entering professional wrestling, Dominik overcame early doubts and transformed himself into one of WWE’s most compelling new stars, stirring up strong reactions from fans and veterans alike.
Early Uncertainty About Dominik’s Career Path
Rey Mysterio, revered for his accomplishments in WWE, was not always confident about his son Dominik’s future. Wrestling veteran Konnan shared behind-the-scenes insight, revealing that Dominik did not immediately gravitate towards wrestling and was unsure about his direction, having not attended college or embraced the sport at first. This uncertainty deeply concerned Rey Mysterio, who worried about his son’s prospects both inside and outside the wrestling world.
During an interview, Konnan described Dominik’s early struggles with fitness and motivation, noting the extensive efforts Rey made to support his son’s transformation. He arranged professional training for Dominik in Florida and Calgary, working with accomplished figures such as Lance Storm to prepare him for the physical demands of pro wrestling.
“The main thing was he didn’t know what he wanted to do, and Rey was afraid, you know. He didn’t go to college, and he didn’t wanna be in wrestling. And then one day, he just told his dad, ‘You know what I wanna take a shot at wrestling.’ So we started to train him, he was out of shape, you know. He got tired really easily. So he (Rey) sent him to Florida to get in shape, then he sent him to Calgary with Lance Storm, and different places.”
—Konnan, Wrestling Veteran
Dominik’s Growing Role and Controversy in Storylines
Since joining the WWE roster, Dominik Mysterio has quickly developed a reputation as a standout heel, amplifying drama with his presence in high-profile storylines. However, not all reactions to his onscreen role have been positive within the wrestling community. WWE veteran Vince Russo recently highlighted a contentious moment involving Dominik, taking issue with the believability of Dominik’s influence in match booking.
Russo was perplexed by a storyline in which Dominik orchestrated a bout between JD McDonagh and AJ Styles. The veteran commentator questioned why Dominik would be allowed to book such matches, calling it an odd plot device that failed to resonate with fans or experienced figures like himself.
“If we go back to that scene in the back with The Judgment Day, so, Dom booked a match with McDonagh and AJ. I’m watching this and I’m really trying to figure this out. I’m like, wait, so, Dom booked the match. So, Dom is a booker now? Dom’s making [matches] but I swear to God Chris, two things, they don’t care and neither do the fans,”
Russo said. —Vince Russo, Former WWE Writer
Challenges Remain as Dominik Carves His Path
Despite the doubts and criticism, Dominik’s journey reflects the intense scrutiny that new stars face in WWE, particularly when following in the footsteps of a legendary parent like Rey Mysterio. His evolving character, marked by a heel persona, continues to polarize audiences and spark intense debates about wrestling narratives and credible roles within shows.
Looking ahead, Dominik’s storylines and character work remain under close watch by both fans and insiders. The emotional intensity surrounding his rise, combined with the expectations set by his family’s legacy, ensure that Dominik will continue to confront significant challenges on his quest to be recognized as a WWE star in his own right.
