Lucha Libre Volcánica brings high-flying pro wrestling to Tacoma

Each week, the “Grit City” lives up to its name as athletes soar around a wrestling ring, leaping from the top ropes, slamming into the mat, and weaving a tapestry of lore through the physical storytelling medium that is Lucha Libre — a high-flying style of wrestling from Mexico, rich in flair and style.

The ring warriors, known as Luchadores, hone their craft at the Lucha Libre Volcánica School in Tacoma. Every week, students gather at the gym to learn the tricks of the trade from seasoned Luchador veteran José Luis Gómez, also known as “The Professor.”

While other wrestling training programs exist, Lucha Libre Volcánica stands out.

“What makes us different is that we only teach Mexican wrestling. We are the only wrestling school in the entire Northwest,” said Gómez.

“The Professor” has taught Lucha Libre for 16 years in Washington and has been a Luchador for over 45 years. In addition to instructing and developing aspiring Luchadores, Lucha Libre Volcánica hits the road 16 times a year for shows across various cities and towns, from Tacoma to Skagit Valley and even Spokane.

The Tacoma-based Lucha Libre Volcánica promotion features a packed roster.

“I have around 30 fighters, and they’re all good, but the ones who stand out the most are Allan Xtreme, Black Hawk, Jalisco, Ave Rex, Peligro Jr., and El Héroe, among many others,” said Gómez. He also mentioned that some of his talent has reached the highest levels of pro wrestling.

“I have some guys who are in WWE [World Wrestling Entertainment] in a certain way: Jetnaig, Jordan, Wasp, and CMLL, and Ave Rex,” he said.

One of the Luchadores currently with the promotion goes by the ring name “Perro Rata” (Rat Dog). (Often, Luchadores wrestle under a secret identity.)

In his eight months with the company, Perro Rata dons his black and pink wrestling gear, complete with a pink mask, and goes to battle. Perro Rata’s promotion stands out not only because of the action in the ring but also what happens outside of it.

“What makes their shows unique is the culture. The energy of the crowd and the welcoming environment. Something I always thought was so cool — after the show, the promotion invites the kids to play in the ring, really hammering home that sense of community,” said Perro Rata.

He also shared his thoughts on the pro-wrestling scene in Washington.

“The scene is incredible! There are so many talented wrestlers who continue to push the bar and inspire my definition of a great wrestler. More companies have been looking to diversify their roster and product by inviting my Lucha peers and me to introduce the style of Lucha to their audience,” said Rata, whose goal in wrestling is to become a world champion. The first stop on his journey is Lucha Libre Volcánica in the South Sound, with plans to expand internationally to places like Mexico and Japan.

“Dynamic” Rook Kelly is another wrestler with the promotion who has seen the pro-wrestling landscape develop and grow.

“I would describe the local pro-wrestling scene as blossoming and going to even larger venues, with even more followers,” said Kelly, who added that the crowds at every venue have been great, helping him bring his best.

“I enjoy the crowds because they are very engaging and into everything you do. They love action. Even if they aren’t the typical pro-wrestling fans, they are as enthralled as the next person in an arena,” Kelly said.

For more information on the Lucha school, promotion, and upcoming events, check out their Facebook page at facebook.com/LuchaVolcanica or on X at @LuchaVolcanica.