A fighting bull jumped over a barrier during an event in Mexico City, causing panic among the crowd, who narrowly escaped injury.
A terrifying incident occurred during a bullfighting event in Mexico City when a bull unexpectedly leaped over a barrier, nearly injuring spectators.
The event took place on January 19, 2025, at the José Garfias ‘Hechicero’ ranch during the 2025 Anniversary Fair.
Onlookers put in danger during bullfighting event as a fighting bull leaps over barrier
The bullfight featured Spanish matador Borja Jiménez, known for his impressive skills in the arena.
As he performed with the bull, the situation took a dangerous turn.
In a shocking moment captured on video, the bull launched itself towards the audience, causing chaos among the spectators.
Witnesses described the scene as chaotic.
The bull crashed into a wooden barrier before vaulting over it, heading straight for the seated crowd.
Photos from the event show people leaning back in their seats, some shielding themselves from the oncoming animal.
One woman was seen jumping from her chair to escape the bull’s path.
Another image reveals the bull falling after landing just inches away from the audience.
Fortunately, no injuries were reported, and the crowd managed to avoid any serious harm during the frightening moment.
Reaction of the matador
Despite the alarming incident, matador Borja Jiménez did not comment on the event.
Instead, he shared a photo on social media, showing himself standing in the center of the ranch with his arms raised, holding a bouquet.
This post came after the incident, indicating his focus on the performance rather than the chaos that unfolded.
Controversy surrounding bullfighting
Bullfighting is a practice that has sparked intense debate worldwide.
It originated in Spain and was brought to Latin America in the 1500s. In June 2022, bullfighting faced a significant setback in Mexico City when a judge banned the practice.
However, the country’s Supreme Court of Justice later overturned this ban, allowing bullfighting to continue in Mexico.
According to Humane Society International, around 180,000 bulls are killed each year in bullfighting events globally.
The organization has criticized the practice, stating that bulls endure prolonged suffering in the arena, both physically and mentally.
“Bulls suffer from a protracted death in the bullfighting arena, weakened and tormented both physically and mentally.”
Despite these concerns, bullfighting remains a major industry in Mexico, providing many jobs and contributing significantly to the economy.
The industry is said to create about 80,000 direct jobs and 146,000 indirect jobs nationwide.
The National Association of Breeders of Fighting Bulls reports that the bullfighting industry generates approximately $400 million annually.
Plaza Mexico hosts major bullfighting events.
Plaza Mexico, located in Mexico City, is considered the largest bullfighting ring in the world.
It is often referred to as the “cathedral of Mexican bullfighting,” alongside other famous rings in Spain, such as Las Ventas in Madrid and La Maestranza in Seville.
This venue hosts numerous bullfighting events throughout the year, attracting large crowds and significant attention.
