Many wrestlers opt to wear masks for various reasons—some to create distinct personas, others to honor tradition. Masks are a key element in professional wrestling, beloved by fans around the world.
Often, wrestlers wear masks to maintain anonymity, even when posting photos on social media, aiming to preserve their mystique, much like the legendary Rey Mysterio. However, there are rare moments when fans get to see these masked wrestlers without their iconic coverings.
Bushi
Debuting in 2007, Bushi made his mark in NJPW, especially as part of the Los Ingobernables de Japón faction alongside stars like Tetsuya Naito, Evil, and Hiromu Takahashi. Over a decade, he achieved significant success, including becoming the IWGP Junior Heavyweight Champion. Though fans mostly see him masked, there are occasional glimpses of Bushi unveiled.
Dragon Lee
Since debuting in 2014, Dragon Lee has proven himself one of the top talents in the ring, holding titles like the NXT North American Championship and ROH World TV Championship. His mask has been forcibly removed multiple times, notably by El Grande Americano in WWE and during his AEW tenure when a partner attacked him and tore off his mask.
Mil Muertes
Launching his career in 1998, Mil Muertes became known for his dominating presence in Lucha Underground and MLW, securing championships such as the MLW Caribbean Heavyweight and Lucha Underground titles. Off the mask, he has competed under the name Judas Mesias in TNA, showcasing a different persona.
Abyss
Active since 1996, Abyss stands out as a monstrous figure in TNA with numerous titles to his name. Later in his career, he adopted the Joseph Park persona, appearing without a mask and exploring an identity shift.
Penta
Debuting in 2010, Pentagon Jr., known for his fierce style, experienced a moment where his mask was torn, exposing his face—an unusual and surprising sight for fans, as he is typically fully masked.
Sin Cara II
In WWE, the Sin Cara character was portrayed by two wrestlers, with the second revealing his face during a live event, a rare occurrence given the usual secrecy of masked wrestlers.
El Torito
Since 2000, El Torito impressed audiences with his agility and chemistry with partners like Primo and Epico Colón. Although his mask stayed on during matches, behind-the-scenes photos have unveiled his identity to fans.
Rey Mysterio
Debuting in 1992, Rey Mysterio is perhaps the most iconic masked wrestler, famous worldwide. While he has wrestled unmasked at times and shared photos online, he generally keeps his identity concealed, reinforcing the power of his mask.
Dr. Wagner Jr.
With a career starting in 1986, Dr. Wagner Jr. suffered a significant loss in a ‘Luchas de Apuestas’ match in 2017, forcing him to remove his mask. Despite this, he continues to wrestle under the name Rey Wagner.
Excalibur
Since 2003, Excalibur has been unique in wrestling as a masked commentator, keeping his personal life private while engaging fans. Occasional photos reveal his true appearance, adding to his mystique.
Fan Take: For WWE fans, seeing wrestlers without their masks offers a rare and intimate glimpse into their identities, deepening the personal connection with these athletes. This tradition of masked wrestling not only adds drama to the sport but also preserves its rich cultural heritage, ensuring wrestling remains a captivating spectacle.
