Aranjuez surrenders to the art of Morante and Pablo Aguado

Aranjuez surrenders to the art of Morante and Pablo Aguado

Aranjuez surrenders to the art of Morante and Pablo Aguado

31/05/2026

Aranjuez Surrenders to the Art of Morante and Pablo Aguado

A memorable performance by Pablo Aguado, rewarded with two ears and a tail, together with another masterclass from Morante de la Puebla, marked a day of outstanding artistic bullfighting in Aranjuez. The Sevillian matador fully understood an extraordinary Núñez del Cuvillo bull, while Morante once again demonstrated his knowledge, purity and unique style. Roca Rey, meanwhile, showed the determination and courage expected of a top figure despite drawing the least favorable lot of the afternoon.

The San Fernando celebration bullfight was held before a packed house and featured two outstanding bulls within an uneven Núñez del Cuvillo corrida. The standout name of the day was “Ponderoso”, a remarkable bull that was awarded a lap of honor after an unforgettable performance by Pablo Aguado.

Aguado Delivers One of the Finest Performances of His Career

Some bulls become part of a matador’s history, and “Ponderoso” will undoubtedly occupy a special place in Pablo Aguado’s career. From the very first cape passes, the Sevillian displayed complete commitment. He welcomed the bull with elegant verónicas and later delivered a vibrant chicuelina sequence finished with a superb half-verónica.

The surprise came during the banderillas. Aguado chose to take the sticks himself and completed a spectacular tercio that ignited the crowd. The atmosphere reached its peak even before the muleta work began.

With a bull that combined class, quality and emotion, Aguado crafted a complete performance. Beginning on his knees, he went on to produce deep and natural bullfighting on both sides. It was a display full of inspiration, commitment and connection with the crowd, becoming one of the most important performances of his career.

After a decisive sword thrust, the president awarded two ears and a tail, while “Ponderoso” received the honor of a lap around the ring.

Against the sixth bull, which had been heavily protested due to its lack of presence, Aguado once again produced notable moments, especially with the left hand, although the performance did not reach the same level of intensity.

Morante Delivers Another Lesson in Bullfighting

If Aguado had already raised the standard, Morante de la Puebla responded with another performance of immense artistic depth.

His fourth bull provided the opportunity to display the full extent of his talent. From the outset, the Sevillian imposed his style with precision, placement and rhythm. The series with the right hand stood out for their depth, while on the left he extracted every ounce of quality from the bull through experience and commitment.

The sword entered slightly low, but the quality of the performance led the crowd to demand the highest reward, and Morante was granted two ears.

He had already cut an ear from the opening bull after a performance based on patience and intelligent handling of a manageable animal with limited strength. The highlights came with the left hand and were crowned by an excellent sword thrust.

Roca Rey Shows Determination Despite Limited Opportunities

Roca Rey did not enjoy the same opportunities as his fellow matadors, but once again demonstrated why he remains one of the leading figures in modern bullfighting.

The second bull changed dramatically during the banderillas and arrived at the muleta stage in a very weakened condition, leaving the Peruvian with virtually no chance of success.

With the fifth bull, however, he attempted to change the course of the afternoon. He received it on his knees with the cape and later produced several moments of notable artistry. After a vibrant beginning to the faena, the bull gradually lost strength and transmission.

Even so, Roca Rey remained committed, standing firm and searching for a triumph until the very end. His effort was recognized with an ovation.

Bullfight Details

Aranjuez Bullring (Madrid). Bullfight held in honor of Saint Ferdinand. Full house.

Bulls from Núñez del Cuvillo, uneven in presentation and performance. The standout animals were the third, “Ponderoso,” awarded a lap of honor, and the good fourth bull. The sixth was heavily protested due to its lack of presence.

  • Morante de la Puebla: ear and two ears.
  • Roca Rey: silence and ovation.
  • Pablo Aguado: two ears and tail, and silence.

An Unforgettable Afternoon in Aranjuez

Aranjuez witnessed one of those afternoons that remain in the memory of bullfighting fans. Pablo Aguado found a bull for the ages and took full advantage with a career-defining performance, while Morante once again confirmed that he is enjoying one of the most inspired periods of his career. Roca Rey completed the bill with a display of commitment and determination.

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