The four major performances—each earning two ears—that opened the *Puerta Grande* in Madrid in 2026

30/10/2026

The Four Major Two-Ear Performances That Opened Madrid’s 'Puerta Grande' in 2026

The 2026 bullfighting season at the Las Ventas bullring has left behind moments to remember. Among the season's standout figures are Alejandro Talavante, Julio Méndez, Diego Ventura, and Román—four bullfighters who delivered two-ear performances during the San Isidro Fair, earning them the right to pass through Madrid’s historic 'Puerta Grande' (Main Gate).

These four highly significant triumphs—part of the eleven occasions this season where a bullfighter was carried out on shoulders at the Madrid arena—encapsulate some of the most intense emotions experienced by the fans in the stands.

Alejandro Talavante: A Masterpiece with 'Ganador,' from the Núñez del Cuvillo Ranch

One of the season's greatest afternoons was provided by Alejandro Talavante, who once again captivated Madrid with a performance of extraordinary depth against the fourth bull—named 'Ganador'—from the Núñez del Cuvillo ranch.

The bullfight had been unfolding without much excitement until this bull from Cádiz entered the ring. Talavante, however, quickly discovered the path to crafting a performance of the highest caliber. He began with *estatuarios* (statue-like, motionless passes) and built momentum as the bull responded with both quality and length in its charges.

The bullfighter from Extremadura showcased his very best, executing long, sweeping passes with the *muleta*—characterized by a natural grace and an artistic expression that resonated deeply with the crowd. Particularly notable were his *naturales* (left-handed passes) and his fluid, well-linked sequences on both sides; the performance grew in intensity, reaching moments of genuine brilliance.

A precise, well-placed sword thrust provided the perfect conclusion to a memorable performance. Madrid acknowledged his dedication and his artistry by awarding him two ears—a prize that granted him the honor of exiting through the 'Puerta Grande.' Julio Méndez: Maturity and Personality to Conquer Madrid

Another of the season’s great revelations was Julio Méndez, who delivered a performance of remarkable maturity against a young bull (*novillo*) from the Conde de Mayalde ranch.

The young *novillero* (aspiring bullfighter) managed to overcome the animal’s initial difficulties and a challenging start to the *lidia* (the bullfight sequence). He signaled his intent right from the beginning of the *faena*—the final stage of the bullfight—by dropping to his knees to execute a *cambiado por la espalda* (a pass behind the back) in a position of maximum exposure.

From that point on, Méndez built a highly intense *faena*, characterized by an upright posture, *temple* (rhythmic composure), and depth. The bull responded with high-quality charges, allowing the native of Ávila to string together sequences that resonated deeply with the crowd in the stands.

A closing series of *bernadinas* (close-range passes) and a profoundly executed *natural* (a classic pass with the *muleta*) brought the audience to their feet. Although the sword placement was slightly off-center, it proved effective, and the crowd’s demand for an award was granted by the presiding official, who awarded two ears.

It was a performance that confirmed both the personality and the immense potential of a *novillero* clearly destined for a significant place in the bullfighting ranks.

Diego Ventura: Another Historic Chapter in His Relationship with Madrid

Diego Ventura once again demonstrated his stature at the Las Ventas bullring. The *rejoneador* (mounted bullfighter) from La Puebla del Río delivered a performance of spectacular flair and precision against a bull from the María Guiomar Cortés de Moura ranch.

From the very first moments, Ventura asserted his dominance and technical mastery. Aboard his horse 'Nómada,' he created moments of great excitement, keeping the bull glued to the horse’s flank and executing daring, tight-quarters maneuvers to place the *banderillas*.

The *faena* reached its climax while he was mounted on 'Bronce,' when he placed a *banderilla* without using a bridle—a feat that brought the fans to their feet. This was followed by *banderillas cortas* (short *banderillas*) placed in the *violín* style (over the shoulder),, which perfectly rounded off his performance. The two ears awarded were recognition for an outstanding afternoon, earning him another *Puerta Grande* (triumphal exit) in Madrid—the twentieth of his career at the Las Ventas bullring.

Román: The thrill of a decisive sword thrust to secure the *Puerta Grande*

The San Isidro Fair also featured one of its most electrifying moments courtesy of Román, who managed to earn a *Puerta Grande* following a vibrant performance against the spirited bull 'Gallarete,' from the Victorino Martín ranch.

The bullfighter from Valencia delivered a performance defined by sincerity, total commitment, and great personal risk. Facing a bull that stood out for its bravery, Román remained steadfast from the very start, linking deep, fluid passes with his right hand while consistently keeping the bull’s charge low to the ground.

The *faena* (the series of passes leading up to the kill) reached moments of intense emotion—particularly during the *natural* passes—where the bullfighter once again showcased his distinct personality and his capacity to give everything without reservation.

Just when it seemed the award might be limited to a single ear, Román decided to go all-in for the *Puerta Grande* with a bold, final gamble: he positioned the bull in the center of the ring and summoned it for a *recibir*—a high-risk, classic style of executing the final sword thrust. The strike, delivered with immense determination, brought the crowd to its feet and proved decisive in securing both ears.

It was a high-impact performance that provided an exhilarating conclusion to the San Isidro Fair.

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