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This article is from the Pro-Wrestling FAQ, by macika@emunix.emich.edu (Dominic Macika) with numerous contributions by others.

8.3. What's with all the masks in Mexico?

The masks worn by the Luchadores are inspired by ancient Aztec
traditions of masked warriors. The mask is considered the most
precious thing a Luchador has. When a wrestler loses his mask, he
has suffered the ultimate dishonor, the ultimate humiliation.
Very few wrestlers will make it through their entire career
without losing their mask. Only the true legends get to retire
with their anonymity intact.

El Santo (The Saint) is perhaps the most famous case of a
Luchador retiring without ever being unmasked. When he died in
1984, El Santo was buried with his mask on.

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