A visit to the Lucha Libre in Mexico City is an essential part of your visit to the capital, and is great fun – especially if you go in a group and have a few drinks beforehand to really get in the swing of it! Here’s all you need to know about going to watch the incredible Mexican wrestling known as Lucha Libre at the Arena Mexico in Mexico City.
Know Before You Go to Mexico City
Before travelling to Mexico City, make sure you book accommodation and popular attractions ASAP as hotels and tickets can sell out.
🛌 MY FAVOURITE HOTELS IN MEXICO CITY FOR SOLO TRAVELLERS:
$$ Casa Mannach – Excellent location in Condesa with a shared kitchen
$$ NaNa Vida CDMX – Lovely hotel in Roma Norte with a roof terrace
$ Hostel Home: I volunteered here for 3 months and loved it!
⭐ TOP 3 MEXICO CITY ACTIVITIES TO BOOK IN ADVANCE:
1. Mexico City: Teotihuacan, Guadalupe Shrine & Tlatelolco Tour
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Lucha Libre in Mexico City – A Bit of History
Literally translated as “Free Fighting”, Lucha Libre is similar to American WWF Wrestling and the like, but usually includes more high flying jumps & athletic moves than its American equivalent. And of course, Lucha Libre is easily recognised with those all-important lucha libre masks which hide the identity of the luchadores (fighters).
Lucha Libre dates back to 1863, but became more popular after the 1933 founding of the Empresa Mexicana de Lucha Libre (Mexican Wrestling Enterprise), then with the invention of television allowing the sport to reach a much larger following. Lucha Libre in Mexico City is a popular pasttime for locals and tourists alike, who want to catch a glimpse of their favourite luchador.
The most famous luchador in Lucha Libre was named El Santo (The Saint), who wore a silver mask & fought for nearly 5 decades. He became a symbol of justice for Mexicans, and appeared in comics and films battling his rival Blue Demon, and other fighters as well as more unusual foes like zombies, vampires and werewolves! Ever wondered where the film Nacho Libre got inspiration? Here it is folks!
Want More Mexico Travel Ideas?
Check out these blog posts for your Mexico vacation inspiration, or click here to read all my Mexico blog posts.Lucha Libre Masks
Not every luchador fighter in Lucha Libre wears a mask, but for the majority, the mask hides their true identity and is a vital part of their luchador persona.
In the early days, the Mexican wrestling masks were more simplistic with different colours to distinguish the wrestler, but have gradually developed into more complex designs with some transforming the wearer into horned animals, gods and ancient heroes.
Sometimes high stakes fights include fighting for your opponent’s mask, and losing their lucha libre mask can mean the end of a luchador’s career – or at least the end of the persona they created. Some fighters never remove their masks in public, and El Santo continued to wear his mask long after retirement and was even buried wearing it.
Is it Worth it to Watch Lucha Libre in Mexico City?
I had a great time watching Lucha Libre in Mexico City and I would recommend it to anyone looking for a fun and 100% Mexican activity.
However, don’t be under any illusion that Lucha Libre is a fight. You are going to watch a show, but that isn’t to say this isn’t dangerous, as the luchadores (fighters) perform jumps, flips and throws that are carefully choreographed.
Occasionally things do go wrong, there was a case in 2015 when the luchador known as El Hijo de Perro Aguayo tragically died after falling badly and suffering a brain injury during a fight in Tijuana.
So enjoy the show, and admire the luchadores – part athletes, part actors, and 100% entertainers, as they pretend to tear each other apart in, and around the wrestling arena and get ready to yell and scream with everyone around you!
Lucha Libre Mexico City Tickets
In Arena Mexico, Tuesdays and Fridays are the nights for Mexican wrestling in Mexico City. They also have a family session on Sunday afternoons.
You can buy Lucha Libre tickets in advance on Ticketmaster (check the official Ticketmaster website here), which I’d recommend for the Friday night sessions, or just turn up to the Arena Mexico & buy tickets on the night. If you want the best seats then buy them in advance, but if you’re happy just to get involved then a reasonable ticket on the raised section will cost around 120 pesos.
I would recommend going to watch Mexico City Lucha Libre on a Friday night, when the Arena Mexico fills with stressed, usually drunk Mexicans who are up for a night of cathartic shouting and screaming at, and for, their favourite fighters. The first time I went on a Tuesday, and we got seats closer to the front as it was less busy, but the atmosphere was nowhere near as good as it was on Friday.
This is definitely an event best shared with friends! Perhaps you can get together a group from your hostel, or join a Lucha Libre tour. The more the merrier as they say, and going for a few drinks beforehand helps combat any shyness with the lucha libre chants you are about to be yelling!
If you’re looking for a lucha libre tour in Mexico City, I used Estacion Mexico, or you can check these options from GetYourGuide:
Watching Lucha Libre in Mexico City
The Lucha Libre shows at Arena Mexico last for around two hours. It’s recommended to arrive at least 30 minutes before the show starts so you can find your seats and get started with a beer or a Michelada like the locals do.
The announcer gets the crowd warmed up and as the fighters are announced, they make a dramatic entrance and come down the stairs to their theme tune, supported by the obligatory girls dancing (badly) in bikinis.
I loved to take sides depending on which song was my favourite, although the bad guys often had better rock songs as their theme!
The good guys (also known as ‘Tecnicos’) are usually the favourites with the crowd, and the bad guys (known as “Rudos”) often dress all in black and completely disregard the rules, attacking the good guys 3 on 1, all the while receiving glorious boos from the eager spectators in the Arena Mexico.
Lucha Libre Chants
Many Mexicans attend the fights to let off steam, and really get involved shouting various insults at the fighters they don’t like, or who aren’t playing fair.
According to our guide from Estación Mexico, the three most important phrases you will need for the night so you can join in the lucha libre chants:
Cuuleerrrroooo (Culero) – coward or f*cking arsehole
Putooooohhooo (Puto) – literally translated as a male prostitute
Chinga tu Madre – F*ck your mother
Apparently, these are the favourite swear words that are yelled at the fighters during the Lucha Libre match. I wouldn’t advise using these outside the Mexico City arena, but the 8-year-old boy behind us was shouting these along with his father and who I assume was his grandmother so it seems acceptable here!
What to Bring to Lucha Libre in Mexico City
The Arena de Mexico bag policy is quite strict and bags are searched on entry. You are not allowed any cameras or video cameras inside the Arena de Mexico, they will be taken off you. You will get it back after the show – you’re given a ticket to show in exchange.
Water bottles and other drinks and food are not allowed either, although mobile phones are fine.
Soft drinks, beer, and tons of Mexican snacks are available inside the arena. Sellers patrol the aisles offering beer & soft drinks, popcorn, toffee apples, nachos, crisps and more besides.
There is no dress code, you can wear whatever you like to watch a Lucha Libre match. I’d recommend wearing something comfortable and not too dressy.
If you want to wear that all-important lucha libre mask to support your favourite Luchador, sign up to a Lucha Libre tour with Estación Mexico which includes a mask as part of your package. Alternatively, there are plenty for sale just outside the arena to buy before or after the show. I even saw little luchador wrestler dolls & mini wrestling rings for sale outside too!
Thank you to Estación Mexico for hosting my tour to the Lucha Libre in Mexico City! My tour was complimentary but the views are, as always, my own. On their website you’ll find more information about the tour to Lucha Libre, which also includes a visit to a traditional pulque bar, and a Lucha Libre mask, as well as entrance to the show.
Where to Stay in Mexico City
Each area in Mexico City has its own distinct personality and vibe. Most visitors stay in Condesa, Roma, the Historic Centre, Polanco or Zona Rosa. My favourite neighbourhood in Mexico City is around Roma and Condesa. This area is full of cool bars and restaurants, leafy streets and a hip crowd, and is very safe.
You could also choose a hostel or hotel close to the Zocalo in the Centro Historico to get your fill of history, although the area is a bit dodgy at night during the day you are perfectly placed to explore the city.
Polanco is another option where there are more hotels than hostels, or the Zona Rosa which is traditionally a student area with lots of bars, although I’d say that is better if you are travelling in a group.
Hotels in Mexico City
Casa Mannach – Excellent location in the heart of Condesa with a shared kitchen to prepare your own meals and socialise. Choose from apartments or suites, some with balconies. >>>CHECK PRICES & REVIEWS
NaNa Vida CDMX – Lovely hotel in Roma Norte with a roof terrace, spacious rooms and helpful staff. >>>CHECK PRICES & REVIEWS
Kali Centro Mexico City – In the city centre, this beautiful hotel is close to the popular Mercado San Juan gourmet market, La Alameda Park, and many other sites. Enjoy the on-site breakfast and many other amenities offered. >>> BOOK NOW
Hotel Flamencos – Highly rated overall, but especially for its staff, this 4-star hotel is conveniently located near Zocalo Square, Metropolitan Cathedral, and National Palace. Their full suite of amenities make for a comfortable and memorable stay. >>> BOOK NOW
Hostels in Mexico City
Hostel Home
When I travel alone, I often prefer to stay in hostels so I can meet other travellers more easily. I loved Hostel Home in Roma, it really did feel like home.
They have a private room, a female dorm room, and two mixed dorm rooms to choose from, although they do fill up fast so book in advance if you can. There are plenty of bars and restaurants close by, although if you do go out alone at night, I still recommend taking an Uber home. >>>CHECK PRICES & REVIEWS
Other top-rated hostels in Mexico City Include:
Casa Pancha – This modern and chic hostel has a female-only dormitory and 24-hour reception and security making it perfect for solo female travelers. Plus, they offer free breakfast and a free city tour for those stretching their travel budget. >>> BOOK NOW
Hostal Regina Centro Historico Ciudad de Mexico – Offers a number of options for solo female travelers including a female-only dorm room and private rooms with shared or private bathrooms. Plus, an on-site restaurant and entertainment, and amenities helpful to solo female travelers like 24-hour reception and security. >>> BOOK NOW
Apartments & Airbnbs in Mexico City
There are also plenty of options for Airbnb in Mexico City too although I usually prefer to book apartments on Booking.com as they often have better cancellation terms.
Have you seen a Lucha Libre match in Mexico City? What did you think? I’d love to hear your opinions on Lucha Libre, leave your comments below.
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it’s such good fun! Hope you get to see it live in Mexico one day!
Always wanted to watch some real live lucha libre
Haha glad to bring back some memories for you! It is such a fun time, and a really important part of Mexican culture too, the luchadores are heroes!
This post brought back some fun memories of cheering on (and jeering at) los luchadores. It’s not just in Mexico City – you’ll find traveling and local shows in most major cities, and lots of smaller ones. It’s basically the WWF de Mexico, and it’s a riot! 🙂
I’m going to my first one soon. I’m excited!!
Hi Steve, thanks so much for reading & for your comment. I hope you have an amazing time in Mexico, and oh yes Lucha Libre is something everyone should do in Mexico – fan or not! 🙂 Yes, that is me at the Salar de Uyuni, it was a magical trip, and one of my favourite photos of me ever!! I loved Bolivia, I wasn’t sure what to expect but it was a fantastic start to my Latin American adventure. Safe travels, and enjoy Mexico! Cheers! Claire
I have been a wrestling fan since the early 80s, so as it has has been so much a part of my life, I am always skeptical of people who are not fans, giving their take on what wrestling is. Pleasantly surprised, thank you Claire for the well written and informative review. I will be flying from Australia to Mexico in March. Part of what I am doing there will be taking in a Lucha show or two.
On another note, is your pic above of yourself, taken at Salar de Uyuni in Bolivia? That place is phenomenal. Safe travels.
Haha, why thank you 🙂 I wear it all the time!
haha – you have to get a mask for sure! I loved the colours & the showmanship, it was definitely entertaining!
Oh yes, the people in the front row were right in the middle of the action at times!
I love going to see performances or shows, luckily this happens every week so I had time to catch it. Uhh going to the opera house would be amazing, It hadn’t occurred to me there were actually shows there!!
I think I saw this on Fuller House?!?! Haha. What a cool experience while traveling. I never really go to ticketed events when I travel. In Sydney I meant to go to the Opera house for a performance, more than just to look at it, but never did. Good tips on what you can and can’t bring in. Always good to know. Never want a camera confiscated!!
Wow, I’ve been hearing and watching wrestling way back when I was still young and I think it must be really fun to watch it in person, especially if you are sitting close to the ring. I didn’t know that Mexico has this kind of game. I’ll surely try to experience this when I get the chance.
That sounds like quite a show! I remember as a kid being entertained by the early WWF antics here in the States, but this is so colorful! I definitely want to give a Lucha Libre show a go in Mexico! I’m sure Andy would love it, too — plus, I know he’d want one of those masks.
Haha such a lovely wrestling match to watch – I love the curse words and the colorful masks. By the way, they suit you so much 🙂 Loving your new look ;p
Sounds like a really fun way to experience the culture of Mexico City! I’ve always known Lucha Libre for their masks – I had no idea it was more of a show than a fight – wouldn’t have guessed!
Thanks for the tip on heading for a better atmosphere on Friday nights. Definitely one of the attractions I want to take in when we have the chance to visit 🙂
I love luchadores! I was first introduced to the culture from a cartoon called ¡Mucha Lucha! when I was a kid and was fascinated ever since. So interesting about the luchador who was buried in his mask! What a fun fact! I am going to Mexico in the fall so this is perfect, def want to check this out now.!
Looks like you had fun! This was interesting. I’m not really into the WWF, so I probably wouldn’t be really into this either though I appreciate how much time and effort these guys have to put into the choreography and working out all of the actions. Interesting to see what you thought of the real thing as the only other info I’ve seen about it was on an episode of CSI I think. ^^
What a fun experience! I’ve always wanted to see this in person. Hopefully I get to experience this in the near future.
I would love to attend a lucha libre match! It looks like so much fun and it’s such a deep-rooted part of Mexican traditions that it would be a sin not to go. You’re looking good in that mask – I think you’re ready for your first match. 😉
This always reminds me of the ‘Idiot Abroad’ episode where Karl took part in one of these events. It looks great fun and definitely a very insightful look into Mexican culture
How fun! I have been to Lucha Va Voom in Los Angeles but didn’t have time to attend an event in Mexico. I’ll have to put it on my list of priorities the next time I’m down south.
Honestly it really didn’t seem like ‘real’ violence. I agree, I hate boxing, UFC and all that but this was much more a show than actual fighting. You could see the luchadores placing themselves in the right position to ‘catch’ their leaping opponents, to me it looked like much more of a team sport than a fight, but I see your point 🙂
I can imagine the level of testosterone in that arena!
I have mixed feelings about attending a place like Lucha Libre. I just don’t like any form of violence. But I understand that the fighters want to be there … mixed feelings.
Lucha Libre would be so interesting to go and see. Definitely something that is a unique style to Mexico. It reminds me of that movie Nacho Libre.