Spanish bullfighter, known for his acrobatic and theatrical style.
After watching a bullfight and illegally jumping into the ring to throw
some passes before the bull, he soon became a professional matador and
national hero.
By the time of his retirement, he was the highest-paid matador in
history (1971).
The musical "Matador", which premiered in 1987, is based on his
life.
Was proclaimed "Quinto Califa of Toreo" (Fifth Caliph of Bullfighting)
in 2002, which made him the only living person bearing that
title.