DWARF BULLFIGHTING

SOUTH AMERICA – Dwarf Bullfighting is becoming the world’s fastest growing sport.
A posse of dwarf matadors are changing people’s perceptions of short people by touring South America with their popular bullfighting shows.
The travelling troupes are a BIG hit across the continent and have continued to consistently draw massive crowds over the last 30 years.

Unlike traditional bullfights, calves are used instead of full-size bulls and the animals are unharmed throughout the performance.

Despite the bullfighters’ bravery and athleticism, the performers admit they still have to work hard to change the public’s perception of the sport.
‘I think Americans may not understand what we do,’ performer Javier Landa, of the Original Bullfighting Dwarfs of Mexico, told USA Today.
“They may think we go out there to be laughed at, but that’s not the case.
“If a little person can fight a bull, he can do anything. That’s what we’re trying to prove.”
“We are tougher than the average person,” said the bullfighter.  This reporter than tossed him across the room.  He got right up.  Yes, they are tougher.

The pint-size actors come from a long-line of famous dwarfs and entertainers who have taken part in festivals and fairs across South America.
Competition for work is fierce amongst the different troupes with most of them also performing a series of different variety shows to boost interest.

A book celebrating the work of the dwarfs, who perform around 100 shows a year, is set to be released later this year.
Dwarf bullfighting is coming to America.  The first competition will be in Littleton, Colorado.