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An Inspired Chat with Angel De Paz of Downtown

We’re looking forward to introducing you to Angel De Paz. Check out our conversation below.

Hi Angel , thank you for taking the time to reflect back on your journey with us. I think our readers are in for a real treat. There is so much we can all learn from each other and so thank you again for opening up with us. Let’s get into it: Have any recent moments made you laugh or feel proud?
The amount of people that are familiar with American style wrestling but know nothing about Lucha Libre. These same people know the names of Rey Mysterio but don’t know the true meaning behind the mask and the important significance of the sport.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Angel de Paz, owner and founder of SKILL Lucha Libre. SKILL is Kansas first ever Mexican Lucha Libre company that promotes the heritage of masked mexican wrestling as a performing art. From Southwest Kansas to Kansas City MO, we perform shows, participate in vendor events, and do what we can to educate the public in our traditional values.

Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. What’s a moment that really shaped how you see the world?
Earlier this year in January 2025, I was in a semi-truck accident that nearly took my life. From that point on, Ive realized there is not much time, but there is alot to give and share. With the gifts we have in life, we must share them to bring others the joy that life has brought us.

What did suffering teach you that success never could?
Suffering taught me that it is okay to take a step back. It is okay to live life and thrive at your own pace, and if the timing is right, you won’t do it alone. Together with a good group, anything can be accomplished.

Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
The biggest lie is that everyone watches wrestling, so they will know what Lucha libre is. The style of Lucha libre is different than that of wrestling, with it’s acrobatic feats, it’s high flying manuvers, and the story telling aspect. Lucha Libre is free style wrestling with more showmanship than that of grappling that wrestling is based on.

Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. What are you doing today that won’t pay off for 7–10 years?
Today, we are taking risks and training young and old athletes alike in our style. By training the younger generation to understand the style of Lucha Libre, they will grow in the business and be able to one day become the superstars they wish to be. We are putting on shows for small crowds to showcase our talents, hoping one day we perform in crowds of thousands.

Contact Info:

Image Credits
Ana Carbajal Photography

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