Rey Mysterio, the WWE Hall of Famer and one of the most iconic high-flyers in wrestling history, is reportedly nearing his much-anticipated in-ring return following a significant injury that sidelined him for several months. According to a detailed update from PWInsiderElite.com, Mysterio is “getting closer to returning to the ring” and is expected to be at the WWE Performance Center in Orlando next week for the final phase of his medical clearance process[2][3].

Injury and Absence Background

Mysterio suffered a torn groin just before WrestleMania 41, specifically during the April 2025 SmackDown episode, which forced him off the biggest stage of his career weekend and pulled him from a scheduled match against El Grande Americano (later portrayed by Chad Gable)[2][3]. In addition to the groin injury, he also revealed dealing with a damaged eardrum, compounding what has been a difficult recovery period for the veteran luchador.

This injury has kept Rey out of WWE’s active roster for over five months now, disappointing fans who have followed his career through generations. Prior to his injury, Mysterio had been involved in a compelling program with Legado Del Fantasma and Santos Escobar on SmackDown, showcasing that even at this stage of his career, he remained an essential figure on WWE programming[2].

Recent Appearances and Future Role

While Rey has been sidelined from active wrestling, he has not entirely vanished from WWE and broader wrestling shows. Most recently, he made a prominent appearance at the Worlds Collide event—a joint WWE and AAA production—where he delivered a memorable segment that delighted fans eager for his return[1][4][6].

At Worlds Collide, he was also featured prominently on promotional materials for the show, indicating WWE’s plan to keep him visible for fans and possibly involved in storylines even before his official return to the squared circle[3][4]. His son, Dominik Mysterio, has been a rising star on WWE’s Raw brand and is scheduled for a major AAA Mega Championship match at the same event, which may provide a narrative avenue for Rey’s full wrestling comeback[4].

AAA veteran and longtime collaborator Konnan recently confirmed on his “Keeping’ It 100” podcast that Rey is expected back within the near future and will play a significant role in continuing WWE’s partnership with Lucha Libre AAA[1]. Konnan emphasized Rey’s commitment and utility in building cross-promotional storylines that blend WWE’s global reach with AAA’s rich lucha libre tradition.

What’s Next for Rey Mysterio in WWE?

Sources close to WWE report that while Rey has not yet been officially medically cleared, the upcoming visit to the Performance Center symbolizes a crucial step in the company’s careful approach to his health and longevity in-ring[2][3]. A torn groin is a serious injury, especially for a high-impact performer like Rey, known for his aerial maneuvers and agility well into his 40s.

According to insiders, WWE management and medical staff have taken a cautious approach, preferring to avoid rushing Rey back and risk aggravating his condition[2]. As a result, his return to live WWE programming and competitive matches may be featured gradually, starting with appearances and limited ring time before escalating into full-time action.

The resurgence of Rey Mysterio adds an invaluable boost to the WWE SmackDown roster, injecting star power essential for WWE’s ongoing storylines and fan engagement. With his son Dominik now an Intercontinental Champion and frequent Raw performer, WWE appears to be setting the stage for a father-son storyline that could capture massive mainstream attention.

Insider Insight

“Rey is one of those rare athletes who carries the legacy of lucha libre with unmatched passion, and WWE is determined to see him fully healed before stepping back in the ring,” said a WWE insider speaking on condition of anonymity. “Everyone understands his value—not just as a competitor but as a mentor and ambassador for WWE’s expanding partnership with AAA. Having him back will elevate both brands.”

Conclusion and Fan Expectations

As WWE advances toward Rey Mysterio’s official return, fans can expect him to make various appearances at WWE events and cross-promotional shows in the coming weeks. Industry watchers and wrestling journalists will be closely monitoring any announcements about his full clearance status and debut match post-recovery.

With a legacy spanning over two decades, Rey’s comeback is not just a personal milestone but a major moment for the pro wrestling community worldwide. WWE’s strategic approach to his return underlines their commitment to preserving the health of their veteran stars while keeping the creative possibilities exciting for fans.

Stay tuned for more updates as Rey Mysterio moves “closer to returning to the ring,” a comeback eagerly anticipated by the WWE Universe[2][3][4].

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