Dominik Mysterio Opens Up About “Huge Deal” Of Facing John Cena In San Diego
Dominik Mysterio is set for one of the biggest matches of his career this weekend as he looks to regain the Intercontinental Championship from John Cena at Survivor Series. The event, taking place at Petco Park in San Diego, marks a significant homecoming for the 28-year-old star. With Cena’s retirement match scheduled for Saturday Night’s Main Event on December 13, this bout represents one of the final opportunities for a superstar to step into the ring with the 17-time World Champion.
In a recent interview with Pundit Arena on behalf of his partnership with Lids, Mysterio reflected on the magnitude of the moment. He highlighted the unique history of the venue, noting that this is the first Premium Live Event (PLE) WWE has held in San Diego since One Night Stand in 2008.
“I grew up in San Diego, born and raised in San Diego, California, it’s almost like my whole life,” Mysterio said. “I grew up going to the San Diego Sports arena… going to watch my deadbeat dad (Rey Mysterio) there, and doing live events and TVs. Being able to go back myself a couple years ago to perform there… That was a full-circle moment.”
A Historic Venue
Mysterio expressed excitement about the specific location of this year’s Survivor Series, which will be the first wrestling event ever held at Petco Park, the home of the San Diego Padres.
“Having Survivor Series at Petco Park — it’s the first, the first PLE WWE has had in San Diego since 2008,” Mysterio explained. “Not only that, it’s a Survivor Series in a Baseball Stadium. That’s different… It’s surreal, man. It’s definitely a huge blessing.”
Facing The G.O.A.T.
Despite the hometown advantage, Mysterio is aware that the crowd might favor Cena, who is currently on his farewell tour. Mysterio stated that if the fans cheer for the champion, it will only motivate him to be more aggressive.
“I don’t feel like I have a message,” Mysterio said regarding his opponent. “He’s the champ. I want some, so I’m gonna come and get some. That’s just plain and simple.”
“Forever Grateful” For Judgment Day
Mysterio also discussed his evolution into “Dirty Dom,” a character shift that allowed him to step out of his father’s shadow and become one of the industry’s top heels. He credited his stablemates in The Judgment Day for helping him find his footing, specifically praising JD McDonagh for boosting his confidence.
“I still don’t necessarily feel like I’m totally in sync with the character,” Mysterio admitted. “I feel like I’m just getting more and more comfortable with it… Those first couple of months where it was just Finn, Rhea and Damian, they helped me so much… You throw JD into the mix, and you got another guy blowing my head [up]… I can’t say enough nice things about him. I can’t be thankful enough for him. They all basically held me by my hand and guided me to where I needed to be. I’m forever grateful for ’em.”
A Request For The Fans
Ahead of the match, Mysterio made a specific request for the San Diego faithful regarding his entrance.
“The only thing I need to see is everyone going to a Lids store in San Diego and be rocking a San Diego Padres hat when I’m on my way to the ring,” Mysterio said. “It’s Survivor Series — that’s all that matters right now.”
If you use any portion of the quotes from this article please credit Pundit Arena with a h/t to WrestlingNews.co for the transcription.Â
