If you’re planning a trip to Mexico City, there’s one unforgettable experience that you simply can’t miss: Lucha Libre wrestling! Where you’re a fan of high-flying athleticism, vibrant culture, or just want to experience something truly unique, Lucha Libre offers an exhilarating and immersive experience you won’t find anywhere else. Here’s why you should make room for a night at the ring during your visit…
My friend and I having a good time at Lucha Libre!
Now as a wrestling fan, I may be a little bit bias, but I went with my friend who knows absolutely nothing about wrestling and she had a great time! You can purchase the tickets at the arena, but I recommend booking a local guide from Viator or Airbnb. Why? Not only are the tickets included, but usually an activity or meal beforehand. The tour I booked included a a lucha mask, food and drink along with a short history lesson on Lucha Libre. Other tours I noticed included front row seating and even a meet & greet with a luchadore!
But Chyrisse, whhhhyyy do I need to add this to my itinerary? I don’t watch wrestling.
Look, I get it! Your first thought is probably “this was cool when I was a kid” and “wrestling is fake”. Again, totally get it. But Lucha wrestling is a part of Mexican culture — dating back to the 1800s! It’s more than just seeing a couple of bumps in a ring. It’s the experience of getting off work after a long day, meeting up with friends and having a couple beers while you root for your favorite luchadore.
My friend wearing her free lucha mask from our guide at the taco stand where we ate dinner.
Now there’s a couple things you need to know before you go…
- You’re going to get a “card”
The “card” in wrestling terms is basically the list of matches that will take place that night. This will be printed on a flyer. This is helpful when you get there because then you’ll be able to figure out which luchadores are wrestling in a match at a given time. Don’t worry, they will give this to you at the door.
2. There are two groups of wrestlers in a match: Rudos and Técnicos
Very simple: the rudos are the “bad guys” and the técnicos are the “good guys”. Don’t worry! The crowd will loudly cheer and boo which ones they are. There’s no grey area here like there can be in American wrestling. You’ll also be able to figure it out easily because the rudos will do some sneaky moves on their opponents!
3. There are only shows on Tuesday and Saturday nights
Plan accordingly when booking this! I visited Mexico City for 5 days and luckily for me, I was there for one of the nights. But if you’re going for 3 days, depending on the day, you may not be able to go. Saturday nights are also the most popular for obvious reasons.
The rudos celebrating a victory.
That’s iiiiittt! Think of wrestling as an escape from the hustle and grind. Just sit back, watch the aerobatic moves by the luchadores, and join in the chants with locals. My friend had a great time and she told me she was super impressed with the athleticism and physique of the luchadores (yes we did a little bit of fan girling haha).
What’s your favorite part about Lucha Libre wrestling?
