Rey Mysterio Had A Forgotten Romance Storyline In WCW That Nobody Remembers
Emma Terry 
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When it comes to legendary professional wrestlers, Rey Mysterio undoubtedly ranks high on the list due to his work in ECW, WCW, and WWE. Known for his high-flying acrobatics, incredible athleticism, and captivating mask, Mysterio's career has been filled with unforgettable moments, including world championships. However, amidst his numerous achievements, there is a forgotten romantic angle that unfolded during his time in World Championship Wrestling (WCW) with the talented performer known as Tygress.
The Start Of The Romance Between Rey Mysterio & Tygress
In an effort to tap into the strong bond among the talented performers of the cruiserweight division, WCW made a strategic move by bringing together some of the closest friends in the industry. The Filthy Animals faction emerged as a result, featuring the dynamic trio of Billy Kidman, Rey Mysterio, and Konnan. Initially, Eddie Guerrero was also part of this thrilling group, but his departure to WWE led to a reshuffling of the Filthy Animals' lineup in 2000. Expanding their ranks, WCW introduced new members to further invigorate the faction. Among them were Juventud Guerrera, Disco Inferno, and the captivating Tygress. While Tygress began her WCW journey as a Nitro Girl, dazzling audiences with her athleticism and captivating presence, she soon transitioned into an on-screen character, taking on a managerial role. However, her in-ring abilities were not to be underestimated, as she proved her mettle by getting physically involved when the situation demanded it.
In the second iteration of the Filthy Animals faction, Tygress was paired with Rey Mysterio as his valet, injecting an additional layer of excitement into their storyline. WCW's intention was clear: by incorporating a romantic angle, they aimed to provide Mysterio with a captivating love interest, thus enhancing his character's depth and connection with the audience. Tygress actively participated in matches, often interfering on Mysterio's behalf, seamlessly synchronizing her moves with his in a display of remarkable teamwork. Their chemistry and the seamless execution of their synchronized maneuvers, including the iconic bronco buster, added an extra spark to their performances. As the Filthy Animals' popularity soared, they traversed the spectrum of fan reception, experiencing periods as both beloved fan-favorite faces and cunning villainous heels. However, it was their portrayal as heroic faces that resonated most naturally with the audience, creating an immersive experience for fans.
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The Rey Mysterio & Tygress Pairing In WCW Didn't Work
It was during this period that Rey Mysterio had already shed his iconic mask, which had long been a distinguishing feature of his persona in the cruiserweight division. In a bid to keep pace with WWE's utilization of attractive female performers in relationship-driven storylines, WCW introduced a plethora of romantic angles. Amidst this backdrop, the on-screen partnership of Mysterio and Tygress endured, lasting long enough for Tygress to achieve a significant milestone in her career. At the Halloween Havoc event, she teamed up with Rey's longtime friend Konnan, engaging in a thrilling match against Shane Douglas and Torrie Wilson, emerging victorious. However, shortly after this triumph, the Filthy Animals went their separate ways, bringing an end to this particular chapter of their alliance.
While the romantic angle between Mysterio and Tygress may not have garnered the desired traction with fans, it is important to acknowledge Tygress's remarkable portrayal. With an incredible Rosie Perez-like impersonation, she breathed life into her character, leaving a lasting impression on viewers. It is crucial to note that the on-screen romance was purely a storyline and that both Mysterio and Tygress were involved in real-life relationships with other individuals, emphasizing the scripted nature of their on-screen connection. Despite the angle's ultimate outcome, the Filthy Animals' attempt to intertwine the personal lives of its members through a romantic narrative highlights the creative risks taken by WCW during that era.
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WCW Storylines In 2000 Were Getting Ridiculous
During the period when Rey Mysterio and Tygress were involved in their romantic angle in WCW, the company was, unfortunately, facing significant challenges. WCW had reached a critical juncture in its history, plagued by a multitude of issues that ultimately contributed to its downfall. One of the major problems that afflicted WCW was the lack of cohesive and effective creative direction. The storylines and character development often felt disjointed and lacked the long-term planning necessary for sustained success.
WCW struggled to establish consistent narratives that could captivate audiences and keep them invested in the product. This inconsistency in storytelling created an environment where promising angles, such as the romantic pairing of Mysterio and Tygress, were unable to reach their full potential. Backstage politics and power struggles also played a detrimental role in WCW's demise. These internal conflicts led to a lack of unity and cooperation, hindering the overall quality of the product.
