Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
Available On Air Stations
Watch Live

Border & Immigration

11-Year-Old Boy Steps into Tijuana's Bullfight Ring

An 11-year-old boy will be featured at Tijuana's Sunday afternoon bullfight. KPBS Reporter Amy Isackson reached Michelito Lagravere and his father at their home in southern Mexico's Yucatan and spoke with them about how Michelito got his start.

Michelito says he was introduced to the world of bullfighting before he can remember.

"I was 15 days old when my mom took me to see my first corrida. It was my dad's."

Advertisement

About a year later, Michelto's dad, Michel, who has 35 years of professional bullfighting under his belt, says his son would wobble around the house pretending towels and napkins were capes.

"Everyone would laugh. But Michelito began training with other bullfighters who came around the house. I was blown away the first time my son stepped into the ring."

That's when Michelito was four.

Some people say Michelito is too young for bullfighting.

But he brushes off the barbs.

Advertisement

"Some people like soccer or karate. I'd never prohibit someone from doing what they like."

(All citations translated from Spanish)

Fact-based local news is essential

KPBS keeps you informed with local stories you need to know about — with no paywall. Our news is free for everyone because people like you help fund it.

Without federal funding, community support is our lifeline.
Make a gift to protect the future of KPBS.