El Hijo de Dr. Wagner Jr. makes surprise appearance on WWE SmackDown

Lucha libre legend El Hijo de Dr. Wagner Jr. made his main roster WWE debut on Friday night, answering Carmelo Hayes’ open challenge for the United States Championship.

As Hayes waited in the ring for his mystery opponent, Wagner’s entrance music and video began to play in the Moda Center in Portland, Oregon. Wagner was recognized as the reigning AAA Latin American Champion. 

Viewers at home then saw an inset video package. “The most beautiful mask in the world has arrived in WWE,” Wagner said in the video. “I am Dr. Wagner the third and I am the Latin American Champion. Winning this championship represents a community, the Latin American community. Viva Mexico!”

Hayes went on to defeat Wagner, dodging a moonsault and hitting the Nothin’ But Net legdrop. The two shook hands after the match. 

Wagner has wrestled several times in NXT and in co-branded WWE/AAA events in Mexico, but this was his first appearance on Raw, SmackDown, or WWE premium live events. 

Many of Wagner’s relatives were luchadors, including both of his grandfathers and both of his parents. He has been wrestling since 2009, having won many championships in Mexico and also with Pro Wrestling NOAH in Japan. 

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