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Rafael Gómez Ortega
Rafael Gómez Ortega.png
Rafael Gómez "Gallito" Ortega in a "monumental pass" given to his first bullfight on October 8, 1912 in Madrid
Born (1882-06-16)June 16, 1882
Died May 25, 1960(1960-05-25) (aged 77)
Seville, Spain
Resting place Cemetery of San Fernando, Spain
Nationality Spaniard
Other names Gallito, El Gallo (The Rooster) and Divine Bald
Occupation bullfighter
Spouse(s)
Pastora Imperio
(m. 1911; div. 1912)
Parents
  • Fernando Gómez García (father)
  • Gabriela Ortega Feria (mother)
Relatives José Gómez Ortega (brother) and Fernando Gómez Ortega (brother)
Family Familia Gallo

Rafael Gómez Ortega, (1882 – 1960) also known as El Gallo ("the rooster") was an early twentieth century bullfighter. He came from a family of famous bullfighters, including his matador father, Fernando Gómez García and matador younger brother, José Gómez Ortega. He is today remembered for several of his unique fighting techniques such as the espantada - or "sudden flight", which simply consisted of him fleeing when the bull entered the ring. Other techniques included fighting bulls from a chair.

His fights were considered amusing to audiences, and he was brought out of retirement seven times because of this "sportsmanship". He finally retired on October 4, 1936. Commentators find that his intermittent fear of the bulls was characteristic of his style, noting that he was often brave when it suited him, and gave in to panic when it did not.

Ortega later wasted his fortune, and was supported by Juan Belmonte. He was briefly married to Pastora Imperio, a famous flamenco dancer.

He died on 25 May 1960 at the age of 77.

See also

Kids robot.svg In Spanish: Rafael Gómez Ortega para niños

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