Samuel Navalón Dominates Alicante and Leaves Through the Great Gate at Hogueras

The Valencian once again demonstrated why he is considered one of the season’s most promising names. Following his success at the Fallas Fair, Navalón confirmed in Alicante that he is enjoying a period of confidence and maturity. The defining moment of the afternoon came with the second bull, one of the few animals in the corrida to offer some mobility.

From the outset, Navalón approached the bull with authority and composure, building a faena based on control, positioning and intelligent bullfighting. Gradually he gained command of the animal’s charge, linking together deep and expressive series that won over the crowd. The performance reached its climax with a perfectly executed sword thrust that secured two ears and a triumphant shoulder carry from the arena.

Marco Pérez also made a strong impression. The young matador from Salamanca returned to Alicante after suffering a serious goring in this very bullring, and he did so with determination and complete commitment. His performance with the third bull was among the most warmly received by the spectators.

Facing the best animal of the afternoon, Pérez produced a faena full of freshness, natural style and ambition. The crowd strongly called for a second ear, but the request was not granted by the president, leaving him with a single trophy. He remained eager and committed with his second bull, although the animal offered little opportunity to add further success.

Víctor Hernández, meanwhile, faced the most difficult lot of the corrida. Rather than allowing the challenges to affect him, he maintained a positive and professional attitude throughout the afternoon. His work with the opening bull was particularly noteworthy, as he confronted a demanding and unpredictable opponent that constantly tested his abilities.

Through patience, technique and determination, Hernández managed to bring the bull under control and draw meritorious muletazos from an animal that initially seemed impossible to shape into a coherent performance. The lack of cooperation from both of his bulls prevented him from achieving greater rewards, although the public recognised his efforts with warm ovations.

The corrida was largely defined by the uneven performance of the bulls from Puerto de San Lorenzo and La Ventana del Puerto. Most lacked consistency, willingness and clarity in their charges, making the task difficult for the matadors. Only the third bull showed notable quality, while the second provided the opportunities that Navalón so effectively seized to produce the afternoon’s most significant performance.

With this latest success, Samuel Navalón further strengthens his position as one of the standout figures of the season, adding another important achievement to a campaign that continues to gather momentum.