Triumphant afternoon in Albacete: Ureña pardons “Diablillo” from Daniel Ruiz, and with Roca Rey, Caballero and the breeder, leaves the ring on shoulders.

The Virgen de los Llanos Fair in Albacete experienced on 12 September a day that will long be remembered. With the No tickets available sign posted days in advance, the arena witnessed the glory of Paco Ureña, who pardoned a bull from Daniel Ruiz; the resounding triumph of international star Roca Rey, who cut three ears; and the successful alternative of young Manuel Caballero, who claimed two trophies on his debut as a full matador. The breeder Daniel Ruiz was also carried out in recognition of the extraordinary performance of his bulls.

Ureña pardons Diablillo, a bull of exceptional bravery

The Murcian reached the summit with the fourth, a bull named Diablillo, tireless and with a charge full of class. From the outset, Ureña understood him perfectly, lowering his hand and dragging the cloth across the sand, building deep, powerful series that electrified the crowd. The harmony between bull and matador led to a unanimous petition for a pardon, which the president granted. Ureña thus received the symbolic award of two ears and a tail. With his first, however, he had little opportunity to shine.

Roca Rey: strength and commitment

The Peruvian, still recovering from his recent goring in Valladolid, confirmed both his status as a figure of the bullring and his commitment to Albacete. With the third bull he opened in spectacular fashion, beginning on his knees, then delivering smooth left-handers and a close-range finish that earned him one ear.
With the fifth, Belicoso, a bull of increasing bravery that was awarded a lap of honour after the fight, Roca Rey displayed his most powerful version on the right hand. There was even a call for a pardon, but the matador chose the sword. A perfect thrust settled the matter, and two ears were awarded unanimously.

Manuel Caballero’s dream alternative

For the young bullfighter from Albacete, it was the most important day of his career: taking the alternativa from his father. Far from being overwhelmed, he showed composure and quality, linking low, well-tempered muletazos with both his bulls. Resolute with the sword, he cut one ear from each, sealing a triumphant debut that also carried him out through the Puerta Grande.