August 3rd, 2025 - Ex-American Soldier Finds New Life in Mexican Wrestling

Flip Gordon, known offstage as Travis Gordon Lopes Jr., has carved out a surprising new life as a lucha libre wrestler in Mexico, where he has gained both fans and criticism for his unique American soldier persona. In the ring, Gordon competes dressed in camouflage, boots, and dog tags, a stark contrast to the colorful, high-flying nature of the sport that’s deeply rooted in Mexican culture. His American identity has raised uncomfortable questions, particularly given the tense political atmosphere between the U.S. and Mexico.

Originally from Montana, Gordon joined the Army National Guard in 2012 and pursued his dream of professional wrestling on the side. After meeting Barby Villela, who worked in marketing for a lucha libre organization in Mexico, Gordon moved to Mexico in 2023. Initially, Gordon tried to hide his military background, but after encouragement from veteran wrestlers, he began incorporating it into his act, donning camouflage gear for a wrestling persona that combined both his military past and his acrobatic wrestling skills.

When he first arrived in Mexico, Gordon faced hostility from fans, many of whom saw him as an outsider in a sport that symbolizes Mexican pride. Initially, he was met with boos as he embodied the role of a “gringo” in the ring. His soldier’s garb, combined with the historical tension between the two nations, amplified this animosity. Mexico’s deep-seated mistrust of the U.S. military—especially given the history of U.S. interventions in Mexico—made Gordon’s character even more polarizing.

But Gordon's evolution into a beloved figure in the lucha libre community was gradual. Embracing his new identity in Mexico, he started speaking more Spanish and connecting with fans. His wrestling style, a blend of technical skills and acrobatics, won over audiences. Encouraged by his wife, Villela, Gordon embraced his persona as a super soldier and took on a “técnico” (good guy) role, despite the rudo (bad guy) persona being common for foreigners in the sport. His popularity grew, culminating in his victory as the first American to win a middleweight title in 2023.

Gordon’s success isn’t just a wrestling achievement; it also represents his deepening connection to Mexico. He now lives in the country permanently, having signed a multiyear contract with the lucha libre council. With his family growing—his daughter was born in Mexico, and his wife is expecting their second child—Gordon has even expressed a desire to gain Mexican citizenship. “I’m proud of where I come from, but I’m also proud that I’m evolving as a human and embracing a new culture,” he says.

Despite the backdrop of U.S.-Mexico tensions, particularly during President Trump’s term, Gordon’s experience in Mexico has been largely positive. He has found a place in Mexican hearts, using his wrestling platform to showcase both his acrobatic talent and his respect for his adopted country. As one fan put it, “He’s Mexican now,” a testament to how Gordon has embraced and been embraced by Mexico’s passionate lucha libre community.

Word of the Day (Merriam-Webster) - Egregious - (adj, ih-GREE-juss) - Egregious is a formal word used to describe things that are conspicuously bad.

Example: Leaving one’s phone on during a performance is an egregious breach of theater etiquette.