Rey Mysterio to Leave WWE for TNA or CMLL?

This spring, Rey Mysterio's contract will expire and the WWE will desperately try to resign the sport's biggest little man. The only problem is, they want to lock Mysterio up with a five-year deal, while Mr. 619 is looking at other options.

Here are a few places we could find the King of Mystery in the spring of 2009.

WWE

This is the most likely scenario since the WWE has the biggest fan base, not to mention the deepest pockets. But Rey isn't looking to be locked up for a long time and has plenty of options.

However, his intentions are to stay with the company, as the WWE is exploring opportunities to bring the WWE to Mexico on a more consistent basis (like they do Canada). And they have already looked into talent development in South America.

Although the WWE likes to sign talent a year in advance, negotiations with Rey Mysterio have stalled. He's reportedly countered the WWE's five-year deal with a three-year deal. But the kicker in the three-year deal is Mysterio must be considered for a role in an upcoming WWE film.

This may be difficult because then you have to delve into roles that would may require Mysterio to expose his face. Yes, we've seen Mysterio's face before... but how'd that work out for his career? The mask is back on for a reason.

CMLL

This is Mysterio's option 1A. If the WWE balks at his wishes for a shorter contract and a shot on the big screen, Rey can easily leap to Mexico's most prominent promotion. Rey is already a huge star in Mexico, and like many of his idols, he would be welcomed as an immediate movie star.

Plus, leaving for the CMLL gives him a chance to reunite with many of his old pals, like former CMLL World Champion Konnan.

TNA

TNA is waiting with open arms for any disgruntled WWE superstar who is above mid-card status. Rey Mysterio would be a great fit for TNA, and I would argue that he'd have a greater impact than Foley, Booker T, and Christian combined.

Don't get me wrong, all the stars listed above solidify TNA's stature every time they pick up a mic or walk that aisle, but with Rey it's different.

Rey fits the mold that TNA was born with. He can go toe-for-toe with the high-flying AJ Styles, Christopher Daniels, and Motor City Machine Guns. Plus, he'd be the perfect mentor to all those young guys who emulate his style day in and day out.

But Mysterio's real asset would be bringing credibility back to the X-Division. He could give the title meaning, all the while building up those within the ranks. And as TNA continues to reach out below the border, they have an established star for fans to cheer for.

No one knows for sure which way the high flyer will land. But we do know if he leaves the WWE, he will make a huge impact that will transform how we see wrestling.

Where do you think Mysterio will land in '09?