Daryl Peveto

STORIES: Dancing With The Devil

   
As is traditional, Villaseñor is dressed by his trainer, who also happens to be his uncle. Bullfighting is an event steeped in tradition, and as a third generation bullfighter, Villaseñor is no stranger to this.
  
Villaseñor prays for good health before his fight at the church at Plaza Monumental. The last time Sr. Villaseñor fought at this arena he was gourged twice by a bull requiring twenty-seven stitches.
     
  
Tijuana, Baja de California, MX, July 1, 2007 – The late evening light at Plaza Monumental emphasizes the elegant technique of Villaseñor. He likens the artistry of his movement to a fine ballet.
  
Showing the masculine side of his performance Villaseñor performs a “dance with the bull,” which he moves side to side along with the bull. This is a very dangerous technique, but one he has perfected over the last year.
  
Turning his back on the bull, Villaseñor is tossed early during his first round. He was so gored, he was taken to the nearby hospital, but later returned, redressed and fought another bull.
     
  
Spectator, Jorge Ramirez, cheered Villaseñor's performance. Though badly injured during the match, Villasenor continued to fight the bull winning the support of the crowd. The white handkerchief represents an excellent performance, and that the fan wishes the judge to grant the bullfighter an ear. After the match the judge deemed the match worthy of two ears, the highest honor for the bullfighter.
   
Villaseñor, shows the cross given to him by his grandmother that he sews onto his tie for good luck before every match. He says, “She brings me luck. It’s like she is right here with me.”