Former WWE Star Rey Mysterio recently spoke with Sports Illustrated's Extra Mustard blog to promote this weekend's Northeast Wrestling events. Down below are the highlights.

On the death of Perro Aguayo Jr. in March:

"That something like that would even occur. You always think of the worst injury, but never that situation. In this case, it was absolutely that. We lost the biggest superstar that Mexico has ever seen. There were so many plans moving forward that would have been incredible. When I meet great people in this industry, I like to let them know they are great human beings. Perro was definitely one of them. He was so warm-hearted, kind, and respectful. Just like there will never be another Eddie, there will never be another Perro."

On taking time away from WWE and his departure:

"My contract was coming to an end. I had been on the grind for so long, and even I was out for a long period of time due to surgery, I was constantly rehabbing. I never had the time to participate in my kids' lives or be around my wife. So I really thought about it – I could be working until I'm 43, 44, or 45 years old, and keep on making money, but where is that going to leave me? I've already done good for myself, so I really needed a break. I wanted to detach myself from having a certain obligation. I wanted to do things on my terms. I wanted to rest, I wanted to enjoy my kids. I wasn't getting any younger, and my kids weren't getting any younger. I weighed my options, and leaving WWE was a decision my wife and I made together. "I'm truly blessed to have a partner, a soulmate that's been loyal and equal to me for all this time. She's been a mother and a father throughout all the years me being on the grind, on the road. Now, I have control of my life and my career. Family has always been the number one importance in my life, and they're the reason I decided I stepped away for a little while."

On if he’s open to a possible WWE return:

"I didn't leave on bad terms. I left on good terms with WWE, so I don't want to say never. They treated me very well, and I'm nothing but thankful with that company for letting Rey Mysterio be Rey Mysterio and be recognized worldwide. If the opportunity comes about in the future, and there is interest from both parties, then why not?”

The full interview is at this link.