Pro Wrestling Chronicle

Match # 123: Rey Mysterio Jr. vs. Juventud Guerrera (Nitro 4/12/99)

No hype is needed for this match up. They had masks, and now they don’t. Let’s begin.

There’s a new mat logo and a new set for Nitro (the lights as stars in the background of the entrance), so we are officially into the death years of the company. Still, matches like this were happening from time to time. The layout of this match is much different than these two would have done a year or two before. A definite progression of style and a willingness to use other moves/psychology. They trade the advantage and some strikes/holds early, and Juvy is actively working the crowd for heel heat. This crowd is live, so it should really add to the whole. Everything is working early, and the pace is great. Huge “Juvy sucks” chant as Rey bails to the outside. Juvy does a crossbody over the top rope – the first big spot of the match – almost four minutes in. The reaction for Rey’s comebacks, and the pace picking up, is huge, and Juvy’s cut offs are definite and awesome. This match really has some flare to it.

The 450 is teased, but Rey stops him and hits a top rope rana. Crap, never mind. Malenko and Benoit are out to attack Rey Jr. at roughly the six minute mark. This was a good match spoiled. Raven and Saturn come out to clear the ring. 2 ¾ and 5.7/10.