Rey Mysterio shows off some of the most important masks from his extensive collection, including his first mask and one inspired by Mexico’s national soccer team. | WWE

Rey Mysterio's mask designer Masahiro Hayashi surprises Mysterio with a special edition, crystal-adorned mask during the WWE Hall of Fame. | WWE

Rey Mysterio was compelled to remove his mask in 1999 as part of a storyline in WCW (World Championship Wrestling), a decision that was not his own. At SuperBrawl IX in February of that year, he and his tag team partner Konnan lost a match to Kevin Nash and Scott Hall. The match carried a stipulation that if Mysterio and Konnan were defeated, Rey would be forced to unmask. This move was orchestrated by WCW management—particularly Eric Bischoff and Kevin Nash—who believed Mysterio would be more m