Rey Mysterio’s absence from this week’s episode of WWE Raw in Berlin left fans wondering where the lucha legend had gone—especially with The Vision continuing their rise and causing chaos across the red brand. But there’s a clear reason why Mysterio wasn’t in the mix, and thankfully, it’s not a major setback.
Why Rey Mysterio Missed WWE Raw
According to a report from the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, Rey Mysterio was kept off this week’s Raw due to a minor injury. The good news is that the injury isn’t considered serious, and he’s expected to return very soon. WWE opted to give him a short break as a precaution, especially considering his age and past injuries.
Mysterio’s last in-ring appearance came on the December 29 edition of Raw, where he faced Austin Theory. The match ended in a disqualification after Logan Paul interfered on Theory’s behalf.
Rey’s Recent Injury History
Injuries have become more common for Mysterio in recent years, and 2025 was no different. Back in April, just before WrestleMania 41, Mysterio suffered a torn groin on SmackDown, which forced him to miss a major PLE match. He was replaced by Rey Fenix, and the injury raised concerns about whether Mysterio would return at all that year.
However, the 51-year-old bounced back and returned at the November 17 Raw at Madison Square Garden. Teaming with John Cena and Sheamus, Mysterio picked up a win over The Judgment Day, showing he still had plenty left in the tank.
The Vision Targets Rey Mysterio
On recent episodes of Raw, The Vision—a new duo made up of Austin Theory and Bronson Reed, with Bron Breakker also in the mix—has made it clear that Rey Mysterio is in their crosshairs. Mysterio has already had run-ins with Theory, and their unfinished business will likely pick up once he’s back.
This week, Penta and Dragon Lee stepped up to challenge The Vision, but interference from Breakker led to a disqualification. With Mysterio out, his allies are holding the line—but for how long?
Future Rivalry With Gunther?
Another possible long-term feud could see Rey Mysterio face Gunther—the man who ended John Cena’s career last month at Saturday Night’s Main Event. WWE has teased that Gunther may go after other veterans who are nearing retirement, and Rey Mysterio fits that bill.
On the December 22 Raw, both Mysterio and CM Punk confronted Gunther after the Intercontinental Champion disrespected John Cena. That segment may have planted the seeds for a future showdown.
With AJ Styles already planning to retire in 2026, Gunther has turned his attention to him for now. But with Mysterio potentially retiring in the next few years, it wouldn’t be surprising if The Ring General adds him to the list of legends he wants to retire.
What’s Next for Rey Mysterio?
Once he recovers from this minor injury, Mysterio is expected to return to the ring soon—possibly in time for the 2026 Men’s Royal Rumble Match, scheduled for January 31 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. It would be a fitting return for the veteran, and perhaps the start of one final run on the Road to WrestleMania.
Whether it’s continuing his feud with The Vision or building toward a massive match with Gunther, Rey Mysterio’s final chapters in WWE promise to be unforgettable.
