Arena Mexico

Built in 1968, Arena Mexico currently hosts shows promoted by the World Lucha Libre Council (Consejo Mundial de Lucha Libre) and is one of the best-known Mexican wrestling venues in the city. While some travelers prefer to attend independently, there are also several private and group lucha libre tours available. These typically include pre-show taco tastings, introductory city tours, or even a brief insight into the history of Mexican wrestling that you might not otherwise learn, making them ideal for first-time or foodie visitors.

• Lucha libre matches at Arena Mexico can be raucous but are generally good-spirited.

• Most performances last for around two hours.

• Vendors outside the arena sell reasonably priced masks, souvenir t-shirts, and other lucha libre paraphernalia.

• You can buy popcorn, crisps, beers, and other snacks inside the venue.

• Take cash to buy tickets, snacks, souvenirs, and tip the ushers.

• Lower level seating in Arena Mexico is wheelchair accessible, but other parts of the venue are not.

Arena Mexico is situated in Colonia Doctores, close to the historic center of Mexico City. While many visitors prefer to arrive by private vehicle, Arena Mexico is also well-connected by public transit. The closest metro station is Metro Cuauhtémoc (Line 1), which is a roughly 10-minute walk from Arena Mexico.

Lucha libre shows are typically held every Tuesday, Friday, and Sunday at Arena Mexico, with preliminary bouts starting at around 8pm. Ticket prices vary depending on the event and seat. Most travelers visit on Friday, when the biggest matches take place, although Tuesday and Sunday evening shows are just as entertaining.

Lucha libre involves, at a minimum, two luchadores (wrestlers)—typically outfitted in sparkly or over-the-top spandex outfits and masks—working through a set of mostly choreographed moves to see who will come out on top. Bouts usually feature the técnicos (goodies) squaring off against the rudos (baddies) and there are often tag-team matches. Just remember that the aim is to entertain and the rules are often ignored.