El Grande Americano Triumphs in Epic Lucha Libre Showdown

Pro wrestling enthusiasts often voice their critiques when storylines falter. Yet, Saturday’s conclusion to the narrative between El Grande Americano and Original El Grande Americano at AAA Lucha Libre Worldwide’s Noche de Los Grandes exceeded all expectations. This match solidified its place as a standout wrestling match this year.

The excitement was tangible. El Grande Americano had gained popularity in both WWE and AAA shows, becoming a beloved figure in Mexico. Fans embraced him, integrating him into the heart of Lucha Libre culture. The Original El Grande Americano took on the role of the despised villain, drawing booing crowds and gestures of disapproval.

El Grande Americano faces off against El Grande Americano during WWE’s Royal Rumble at Riyadh Season Stadium in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on Jan. 31, 2026. (Joe Maher/WWE)

The storyline reached its peak in a crowded arena in Monterey with a Mask vs. Mask contest. El Grande Americano emerged victorious over Original El Grande Americano in a brutal encounter. The revelation that Original El Grande Americano was WWE’s Chad Gable added a dramatic twist.

The match was intense. Gable stunned El Grande Americano with a guitar shot at the outset. Rayo and Bravo intervened against the Creed Brothers, while El Grande Americano took an aggressive stance, putting Gable through a table.

Both competitors fought fiercely, attempting to remove each other’s masks amid a grueling battle. By the end, they were both severely battered and bloodied.

El Grande Americano enters the CHI Health Center in Omaha, Neb., accompanied by Rayo Americano and Bravo Americano during Monday Night RAW on May 4, 2026. (Georgina Dallas/WWE)

Across the pro wrestling community, there’s a consensus that this match was among the best of the year.

After the match, Gable confessed, “I wore this mask to embark on a mission to master Lucha Libre, to defeat the Luchadores. Throughout my journey, I absorbed everything about Lucha Libre, Mexico, AAA, and their rich culture. Standing here, I face you as a man, admitting that tonight the resilient Mexican spirit prevailed.”

Original El Grande Americano makes his entrance during Monday Night RAW at Frost Bank Center in San Antonio, Texas, on March 16, 2026. (Rich Wade/WWE)

Afterwards, Gable took to Instagram, expressing his plans to head to Italy. As WWE prepares for Clash in Italy in Turin on Sunday, his next move remains a mystery.