Manuel Caballero and Aarón Palacio carried out on shoulders in Albacete’s second fair event

The central figure of the afternoon was Aarón Palacio, making his comeback in Albacete with a performance of real substance. His highlight came with the fifth novillo, which he handled with depth and fluidity, producing a series of muletazos full of personality that connected strongly with the crowd. A well-aimed estocada sealed the faena and brought him the award of two ears. With his first, the second of the afternoon, Palacio had already shown his intent, receiving the animal on his knees with two long passes, though the novillo’s lack of options prevented him from cutting a trophy.

Manuel Caballero once again demonstrated that he is a mature novillero, more than ready for his alternativa. The Albacete-born torero cut one ear from each of his opponents, showing composure and a constant desire to perform in the classical style. His sword work was efficient, with two swift estocadas that secured his trophies.

For Nicolás Cortijo, the day was charged with special emotion, as he made his debut with picadors. He began boldly, kneeling at the puerta de chiqueros to receive the third novillo, following with well-shaped verónicas before the animal faded after the horse. His best chance came with the sixth, a novillo of good quality but lacking the stamina to repeat its charges. Cortijo showed commitment and determination, earning one ear from his first opponent, but his difficulties with the sword denied him the Puerta Grande that seemed within reach.

In short, this novillada from Montealto, well presented though uneven in performance, ended with Caballero and Palacio triumphantly leaving on shoulders, while Cortijo gained the respect of the fans for his wholehearted debut.