The world of Spanish bullfighting in 2025 is gripped by a tense rivalry between two prominent figures. At the center of attention are Peruvian matador Andrés Roca Rey, 28, and 45-year-old Spanish maestro José Antonio Morante Camacho, better known as Morante de la Puebla. Their battle for the unofficial title of season leader has turned into an open conflict closely followed throughout the country.
Although both toreros strive to maintain a façade of elegance and professional respect in public, their rivalry has long since extended beyond the arena. This intrigue benefits fight organizers by fueling audience interest and significantly boosting ticket sales. However, for the well-known matador fans who follow them from one fair to another, the situation creates certain inconveniences.
Among these admirers are Victoria Federica and Tana Rivera, representatives of aristocratic circles and the fashion world. Their presence at bullfights adds extra glamour to the events, but neither wishes to be drawn into the personal disputes of the toreros. Victoria Federica, in particular, makes a point of remaining neutral and does not publicly comment on the recent disagreements between Roca Rey and Morante.
Tensions peaked before the event on the 9th of last month at the arena in El Puerto de Santa María, where both matadors received two awards each (orejas). The conflict intensified amid rumors that Roca Rey had allegedly tried to exclude Morante from the participant list at the Santander festival. The Peruvian himself denied these accusations. Additionally, the two have repeatedly engaged in verbal disputes at other venues.
Unlike the reserved stance of Victoria Federica, Tana Rivera openly sided with Roca Rey. After one of the incidents at the Pontevedra arena, she stated that she considers him not only a great torero but also a wonderful person. At present, she is the only member of the aristocratic circle who has publicly spoken out in defense of the Peruvian matador.
Experts and critics in the world of tauromachia have their own perspective on this rivalry. They note that Roca Rey is undoubtedly young, talented, and possesses a modern style, but he still lacks the depth and artistry characteristic of Morante. The Spanish maestro is often called a genius and a true artist in the ring. Some analysts believe that directly comparing these two figures is not appropriate: Morante is already an accomplished master of unique caliber, while Roca Rey is still in the process of establishing his legacy in the world of bullfighting.
