The storyline involving Dominik Mysterio’s custody, which captivated wrestling fans in 2005, remains a significant part of WWE history. Dominik recently opened up about how his father, Rey Mysterio, maintained the illusion of that narrative even outside the ring. This revelation adds a new layer to a feud that showcased the talents of both Rey Mysterio and the late Eddie Guerrero.
In a recent interview on the Towers of Power Pro Wrestling Podcast, Dominik Mysterio reflected on the emotional Ladder Match that took place at SummerSlam 2005. This match was the culmination of a rivalry that transformed from mutual respect into intense personal conflict, as Guerrero claimed that Dominik was his biological son. The storyline, which captivated audiences for nearly two decades, is still remembered as one of the most iconic in professional wrestling.
During the custody angle, WWE portrayed Dominik as being taken away by a social worker. Dominik shared how Rey went to great lengths to ensure that the storyline felt authentic, even when the cameras were not rolling. He explained, “During the custody battle, when I was supposedly getting taken by the social worker and I’d go back home with my parents, they’d put me in the back seat in crevices and cover me with clothes and bags so people couldn’t see me because there’s fans outside the arena. So that’s how I grew up, like old school.”
Rey Mysterio won full custody of Dominik by defeating Guerrero in that emotional match at SummerSlam. This past November 13 marked the 20th anniversary of Eddie Guerrero’s passing. In memory of his late friend, Rey shared a heartfelt letter through The Players’ Tribune, honoring Guerrero’s legacy and their friendship.
Recently, Dominik Mysterio continued to make headlines with his performance on WWE’s Monday Night Raw. He faced off against John Cena in Boston, where Cena captured the Intercontinental Championship. This victory marked a significant milestone in Cena’s career, completing his long-awaited Grand Slam.
According to wrestling analyst Dave Meltzer on Wrestling Observer Radio, the match was originally scheduled for the upcoming WWE Survivor Series. However, it was moved to allow Cena a celebratory moment in his hometown. Despite losing his title, Dominik maintained his heel persona, claiming that he intentionally interrupted Cena to make the night about himself.
In his podcast appearance, he expressed his mindset going into the segment, stating, “It was just making that moment about me… I knew I was going to be in there with, obviously, John Cena and Triple H in Boston. Everything was perfectly in place for John Cena, and it was his night. So when I went out there, I made sure that it was about me.”
Dominik’s attitude followed him into the opening match, where he defended the Intercontinental Championship against Cena. Despite his best efforts, including ambushing Cena before the match started, Dominik could not retain his title. Cena’s victory not only underscored his status as a wrestling icon but also hinted at the conclusion of his year-long retirement tour, with just three appearances left, including his final Raw scheduled for November 17, 2025, at Madison Square Garden.
As Dominik Mysterio navigates his career in WWE, the legacy of his father’s storyline with Eddie Guerrero continues to influence him. Both the past and the present remind fans of the deep connections and dramatic narratives that make professional wrestling a compelling form of entertainment.
