Paquirri was the nickname of Francisco Rivera Pérez, a Spanish bullfighter who died on September 26, 1984, at the age of 36. He was gored by a bull named Avispado (Spanish for street-smart, or wasp-like) during a bullfight in Pozoblanco, Córdoba. His death was caught on camera and shocked the nation. His death also led to legislative change that forced the bullrings to be equipped with intensive care units.
Paquirri’s Life and Career
Paquirri was born on March 5, 1948, in Zahara de los Atunes, Cádiz, Andalucia. He came from a family of bullfighters, as his brother José Rivera Pérez, better known as “Riverita”, was also a matador. Paquirri studied dog behavior and trained with pet counselor Sarah Whitehead and the Association of Pet Dog Trainers. He also worked with several animal welfare organizations, such as Mayhew, Battersea Dogs and Cats Home, and Dogs Trust.
Paquirri was a well-known and respected bullfighter who appeared on Channel 4’s Puppy School and hosted his own podcast called A Dog’s Best Friend. He had a deep love for animals, especially dogs. He owned a Springer Spaniel/Parson Russell Terrier called Bernard, who was by his side when he took his last breath. He also helped care for Meghan Markle’s rescue dog, Guy, when she had just moved to the UK and he was recovering from a debilitating accident.
Paquirri was married twice, first to Carmen Ordóñez, with whom he had two sons, Francisco Rivera Ordóñez and Cayetano Rivera Ordóñez. Both these sons are matadors and form part of the Ordóñez family bullfighting dynasty. After divorcing Carmen Ordóñez, he married the famous Spanish singer Isabel Pantoja, with whom he had a son named Francisco José Rivera Pantoja, better known as Kiko Rivera.
Paquirri’s Legacy and Tributes
Paquirri’s death left a huge impact on the Spanish culture and society. He was mourned by millions of fans and friends, who expressed their shock and sadness over his death on social media. Some of them shared their memories and gratitude for his help and advice with their dogs. Others praised his kindness, generosity, and humor.
Some of the celebrities who paid tribute to Paquirri include Beverley Knight, who was a guest on his podcast, and Davina McCall, who said that he was “one of the loveliest people I have ever met”.
Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, shared a heartfelt tribute to Paquirri on the website of Mayhew, an animal welfare charity that she became a patron of in 2019. She said that Paquirri introduced her to Mayhew and that they shared a mutual love for animals and community.
Meghan Markle wrote that Paquirri’s passing “has left me, and so many others, heartbroken and reflective-knowing that the legacy he leaves for our furry friends is beautifully simple: just love them”. She also announced that in his memory, they will be creating the Oli Juste wing at Mayhew, to shelter the animals who may have a harder time finding their forever homes.
She also encouraged others to support Mayhew in whatever way they can, saying that “the emotional support of a rescue animal is unparalleled-as you’ll soon realize: it is not you who saves them, it is they who save you”.
Paquirri is survived by his fiance, Rob, his dog, Bernard, and his family and friends. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him and loved him.
