In the late 1950s and and early 1960s, when I was in Junior High and High School at St. Augustine School in Laredo, Texas, Mexican wrestling, or lucha libre, was more than just a sport; it was a cultural phenomenon that bridged the gap between Mexican and Mexican American communities. For many families living in border towns like Laredo, lucha libre was a cherished form of entertainment that brought excitement and a sense of connection to our Mexican heritage. The colorful masks, dramatic storylines, and larger-than-life characters captivated audiences on both sides of the border. Our favorite wrestlers were: El Santo, Blue Demon, Black Shadow, Mil Mascaras, La Tonina Jackson, El Huracán Ramírez, Ray Mendoza, El Médico Asesino, Gory Guerrero, Cavernario Galindo, and others.
The weekly ritual of watching lucha libre on our black and white television set every Friday night and sitting next to my mother on the sofa in our old and historic house at 801 Zaragoza Street was a special bonding experience. The broadcast from the Mexican station in Nuevo Laredo brought a slice of Mexican culture into our room, creating a shared space where my mother and I could immerse ourselves in the thrilling world of masked and unmasked wrestlers. However, it was more fun watching Mamá’s animated reactions, with her arms waving and her voice cheering, that added to the excitement and made those moments memorable and unforgettable.
The impact of lucha libre extended beyond the television screen. It influenced the way Mexican American families like ours connected with their Mexican cultural roots. The trips across the international bridge to Nuevo Laredo, Mexico to buy masks of our favorite wrestlers, such as Blue Demon and El Santo, were more than just shopping excursions; they were acts of cultural affirmation. Wearing those masks allowed my older brother Peter and I to embody the heroes we admired, reinforcing our connection to the rich traditions of Mexican wrestling.
El Santo, in particular, was a legendary figure who transcended the wrestling ring. His popularity soared not only because of his prowess as a wrestler but also due to his roles in numerous Mexican movies where he played the hero. For many Mexican Americans, El Santo represented the ideal of bravery and justice, a symbol of pride and cultural identity. His influence was so profound that he became a household name, inspiring generations of fans.
Lucha libre also played a significant role in shaping the Mexican American identity during this era. It provided a sense of belonging and pride. The vibrant world of lucha libre offered a space where cultural heritage was celebrated and preserved, allowing families to pass down traditions and stories to younger generations.
In essence, lucha libre was more than just a form of entertainment; it was a cultural bridge that connected Mexican Americans to their roots and provided a source of joy and pride. The memories of watching those matches with my mother, the excitement of buying masks, reading about our favorite Mexican wrestlers in the Mexican Sports magazines that Peter and I bought in Nuevo Laredo, and the admiration for heroes like El Santo and Blue Demon are testaments to the enduring impact of lucha libre on the Mexican American heritage.
With warmest best wishes,
Gilberto
P.S. “Family is a little world created by love in a home where memories are made and are cherished for years to come.” by J. Gilberto Quezada
P.S.S. As I get older, I am hoping that one day I will be able to say that I have realized the potential that Almighty God put into me. May God bless you always and fill you with an abundance of good health and may God bless America.
J. Gilberto Quezada and his wife Jo Emma live in San Antonio, Texas. He is a retired educator and an author, historian, writer, essayist, and poet. Quezada is the author of the award-winning political biography, Border Boss: Manuel B. Bravo and Zapata County, published by Texas A&M University Press. In 2011, his debut novel, Terror On The Border, was on the Amazon best seller list for five consecutive months. He currently serves on the Editorial Board of Catholic Southwest, A Journal of History and Culture. And Quezada is the recipient of the 2023 distinguished and prestigious Dr. Carlos E. Castañeda Award for meritorious service to the Texas Catholic Historical Society.
