**The Prolific Predator**Deep within the labyrinthine streets of Mexico City, a diminutive dynamo emerged, shattering expectations and defying convention with every step. Virus, born Ricardo Amezquita Cardeño in 1968, would soon become a household name among lucha libre enthusiasts, his reputation as a master technician spreading like wildfire.The first whispers of Virus's greatness began circulating after his debut on September 25, 1988. Initially billed as Piratita Morgan, Damiancito, or simply Bird Boy, the diminutive wrestler (5'5" and 176 lbs) would later adopt his signature moniker, El Pequeno Gigante – The Little Giant.Virus's unique blend of technical prowess and aerial acrobatics quickly earned him a spot in Consejo Mundial De Lucha Libre (CMLL), where he claimed the coveted CMLL World Mini Estrella Championship. This was merely the beginning of an illustrious career that would span multiple promotions, including New Japan Pro Wrestling, All Japan Pro Wrestling, and Osaka Pro Wrestling.As Virus's fame grew, so did his repertoire of moves. The Virus Lock II, Virus Clutch, and Virus Stretch became hallmarks of his in-ring style, often leaving opponents reeling in a daze. His versatility was on full display during his tag team endeavors, where he formed formidable alliances with fellow CMLL stalwarts.Throughout the 1990s and early 2000s, Virus continued to rack up accolades, claiming the CMLL World Lightweight Championship, Mexican National Lightweight Championship, and CMLL Japan Super Lightweight Championship. His SCW Tag Team Championship win, in particular, showcased his ability to adapt to any situation.As the years went by, Virus's legend only grew. His fans affectionately dubbed him El Pequeno Maestro – The Little Master – a testament to his exceptional skillset and unwavering dedication to his craft. When all was said and done, Virus had cemented his place as one of the greatest luchadores in history.Today, the name Virus evokes memories of a bygone era, when Mexico City's wrestling scene was a hotbed of innovation and excitement. Though he may have hung up his mask, Virus's impact on the sport remains palpable, inspiring new generations of wrestlers to follow in his diminutive footsteps.
Facts
Here are 10 interesting facts and tidbits about wrestler Virus:• Virus made his professional debut in 1994 for the Mexican promotion Consejo Mundial de Lucha Libre (CMLL), initially competing under the ring name Piratita Morgan.• His early career was marked by a series of losses, prompting him to rebrand as Damiancito El Guerrero and shift his focus towards more luchador-style matches.• In 1998, Virus began teaming with fellow CMLL wrestler Lizmark Jr. to form the popular tag team La Familia de Violencia.• During this period, Virus also developed a distinctive in-ring style characterized by rapid-fire moveset and high-flying maneuvers.• In 2001, Virus made his debut for Asistencia Asesoría y Administración (AAA), one of Mexico's most prominent promotions, competing under the ring name Bird Boy.• This stint in AAA saw Virus team up with fellow wrestler Máscara Sagráda to form the successful tag team Los Vatos Líbres.• Throughout his career, Virus has competed for a variety of Mexican and international promotions, including CMLL, AAA, and International Wrestling Association (IWA).• In 2006, Virus returned to CMLL and began competing as Bird Boy I, rekindling his earlier success with La Familia de Violencia.• Virus has been known to incorporate various characters and personas into his matches, often playing the role of a " tecnico" or fan favorite character.• Despite his reputation for being an aerial specialist, Virus is also praised for his technical grappling skills and ability to tell a story through his in-ring performances.
