Samuel Navalón triumphs in Valencia's July fair, cuts three ears amid dangerous encounters

Samuel Navalón emerged triumphant from the Plaza de Toros de Valencia on July 18, 2026, cutting three ears and leaving on shoulders after a courageous performance against a difficult bullfight from the El Torero breed. Source: Infobae, El Mundo

The performance

Navalón faced a complex and áspera corrida that offered little room for artistry. He was caught twice violently but continued with determination. In his first bull, he earned a generous ear after risking close passes and suffering a strong blow. In the sixth, he initiated with a portagayola and executed impressive passes, including a series of luquecinas that electrified the crowd. Though his sword work was flawed, the audience demanded and received two ears, securing his exit on shoulders. Source: Infobae, El Mundo

The fighter's spirit

Navalón's performance was characterized by absolute entrega. His recent history includes a near-fatal cornada in Algemesí in September 2025, yet he returned to the ring with renewed ambition. He described his return as "la más especial de mi vida hasta el momento." Source: ABC Looking ahead, he heads to Santander for a corrida with La Quinta, continuing his ascent in the bullfighting world. Already, he has triumphed in both Fallas and July in Valencia, and he aims to make Valencia his home.