WWE legend Rey Mysterio is reportedly close to returning to in-ring action following a significant groin injury that sidelined him from WrestleMania 41. After months of rehabilitation, the iconic luchador has been taking final steps towards a full recovery and a much-anticipated comeback.
Long Road to Recovery After WrestleMania Injury
Rey Mysterio’s injury occurred on the March 29, 2025, edition of SmackDown during a six-man tag team match, where he suffered a torn abductor muscle—a type of groin tear—that forced him out of his highly anticipated WrestleMania 41 match against El Grande Americano[5]. Alongside this, Mysterio also dealt with a damaged eardrum, compounding the challenges he faced during recovery[1]. These injuries kept him off WWE’s programming and limited his appearances earlier in the year.
Signs of a Return: WWE and AAA Collaboration
In recent months, Mysterio has made non-wrestling appearances that suggest WWE is preparing for a gradual but definitive return. He showed up at major WWE-AAA crossover events, notably the Worlds Collide show, where he appeared with a full beard and expressed enthusiasm about the partnership between WWE and the Mexican promotion AAA. His presence helped generate excitement for future joint shows, underscoring a role beyond just in-ring competition[1][2].
Sources close to WWE report that Rey Mysterio is slated to be at the WWE Performance Center imminently to take part in the final phases of his rehabilitation[5]. This marks a crucial step towards his first match back, allowing doctors and trainers to gauge his readiness and physical condition ahead of a ring return.
Confirmation from WWE Leadership
Triple H, WWE’s Executive Vice President of Global Talent Strategy & Development, has also confirmed Mysterio’s scheduled appearance at the upcoming Worlds Collide event in Las Vegas—an occasion featuring top talent from both WWE and Lucha Libre AAA[2]. Although not yet officially advertised as competing, Rey’s involvement hints at a high-impact return, possibly linked to continuing storylines involving his son, Dominik Mysterio.
Dominik is set to compete against El Hijo del Vikingo for the AAA Mega Championship at this event, a match with personal and professional stakes. Fans expect Rey to get directly involved, intensifying the family drama that WWE has woven into recent storylines[2].
Backstage Insights and Timeline for Return
According to insiders familiar with Rey Mysterio’s recovery process, the WWE legend is being cautious but optimistic about his comeback timeline.
“Rey has been progressing well through rehab at the Performance Center. Everyone here is excited to see him back—not just because of his incredible skill but because he elevates the entire roster. The plan is to have him back in the ring by late summer or early fall at the latest,” a WWE insider shared exclusively with Ringside News[5].
This aligns with comments from longtime collaborator and AAA star Konnan, who has hinted that Mysterio would return around August and play a significant role in future WWE-AAA crossover shows[1].
Potential Storylines and Impact on WWE Programming
The timing of Mysterio’s return comes at a pivotal moment in WWE’s storytelling. His absence has been felt, as the company’s landscape has shifted with rising stars like Penta El Zero M (Pentagón Jr.) and El Hijo del Vikingo gaining prominence. Rey’s signature high-flying lucha libre style influenced this new generation, and his return could reset or elevate ongoing feuds[3].
One storyline ripe for continuation is the unfinished business with El Grande Americano. Their WrestleMania match was scrapped due to the injury, but WWE has a history of reviving such rivalries months later to build anticipation. Additionally, the Survivor Series event in November, already featuring Mysterio in promotional material, might serve as the perfect platform for a dramatic return angle[3].
Fans and Industry Anticipate a Major Surprise
The buzz within wrestling circles is that WWE will likely build up Mysterio’s comeback quietly before unleashing a major surprise element. Sources suggest this could include interference or a surprise match that rekindles old rivalries or even sets up new alliances.
“Rey’s return isn’t just about nostalgia. He’s here to remind the WWE Universe why he’s the face of lucha libre. Expect something special,” a veteran WWE producer said.
This aligns with WWE’s strategy of blending legacy talent with the current roster to maintain fan interest and boost event ticket sales, streaming viewers, and merchandise revenue.
Conclusion: The Countdown to Rey Mysterio’s Return
With a groin tear sidelining him since early 2025, Rey Mysterio’s near return signals a thrilling development for WWE fans worldwide. His scheduled rehab completion, confirmed appearances at key crossover events, and support from WWE leadership all point to a well-planned comeback.
Rey’s legacy as a pioneering high-flyer and WWE icon ensures his return will be more than ceremonial—it will be a pivotal moment in WWE programming, offering fresh matchups, renewed storylines, and the chance to witness one of wrestling’s most beloved figures back in action.
Fans and industry insiders alike are watching closely as the legend prepares to step back into the ring, potentially by late summer or early fall, ready to reclaim his place at the forefront of WWE’s evolving landscape[1][2][3][5].