Museum of Mexican Wrestling in Tijuana: the history of the sport in one place
MÉXICO » News » June, 2023 » Museum of Mexican Wrestling in Tijuana: the history of the sport in one place
Published by Ricardo Amadoron June 5, 2023
Tijuana, a city in Baja California Norte, is renowned for its diverse cultural and entertainment offerings, is home to a hidden gem: the Museum of Mexican Wrestling. This extraordinary venue showcases the captivating story of this unique Mexican sport that ignites a fiery passion among its ardent fans.
The Museum of Mexican Wrestling boasts an extensive private collection of artifacts intimately connected to the sport. From original masks and championship belts to captivating photographs, key rings, piggy banks, comics, plastic wrestlers in various sizes and poses, magazines, and an array of memorabilia, the museum houses over 6,800 items that captivate visitors’ imaginations.
This captivating museum first opened its doors to the public in 2017. Its inception was inspired by the founder’s best friend, Zaurel León, who shared his childhood fascination with Mexican wrestling and his disappointment in the lack of dedicated spaces to explore its rich history during his time in Mexico City.
León’s passion for wrestling dates back to when he and his friend were just 8 years old. From that point on, he dreamt of creating a museum where fans could immerse themselves in the world of Mexican wrestling. He diligently collected various items associated with the sport, laying the groundwork for his future museum.
Upon entering the venue, located in downtown Tijuana, visitors are greeted by a mesmerizing display of 964 action figures portraying renowned fighters who have left an indelible mark on the sport’s history. Additionally, 64 championship caps, 598 resin busts, 189 miniature masks, 11 championship belts, 142 scalps, and an assortment of other artifacts create an immersive experience for wrestling enthusiasts.
Among the museum’s most captivating attractions are the 508 original masks once worn by legendary wrestlers. Forty of these masks bear the scars and remnants of past battles, including traces of blood, serving as powerful reminders of the intense physicality and passion that defines the sport.
León, the mastermind behind this remarkable collection, has dedicated over 40 years to curating these cherished items, making many of them invaluable to true devotees of Mexican wrestling.
Adding to its historical significance, the museum proudly preserves three seats from the original structure of Arena México, a renowned venue that has witnessed countless wrestling matches. Additionally, it houses seats from the Municipal Auditorium of Tijuana, another cherished location where wrestling events have taken place.
Known as the Mullme, this distinctive museum is considered one of Tijuana’s hidden treasures and is highly recommended by locals as a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a unique and original experience.
León often shares an intriguing fact with visitors: extreme wrestling was born in Tijuana. It was in this city where chairs, tables, ladders, and various other objects were first introduced into the wrestling arena, creating a spectacle that captivated audiences and rallied support for their favorite wrestlers.
As a testament to the museum’s growing reputation, renowned wrestler Rey Misterio Jr. made a special visit and generously donated one of his iconic masks, along with pants from his signature outfits. As a “Tijuanense by adoption,” Rey Misterio Jr. began his illustrious career in Tijuana before transitioning to Mexico City and ultimately the United States to pursue professional wrestling.
A visit to the Museum of Mexican Wrestling is a remarkable journey into the vibrant history and allure of this beloved sport. It offers an extraordinary opportunity to delve into the traditions, legends, and passion that have shaped Mexican wrestling into the captivating spectacle it is today.
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