The Cuban rodeo community is in mourning following the passing of Michel from Granma, a celebrated figure in the sport who held the national record of 98 points in bull riding.
The announcement was made through the Facebook page "Cuban Rodeo," where he was remembered as "a legend of Cuban Rodeo in this era."
Michel's life came to a tragic end on Friday when he was struck by another bull, known as El Verdugo de Granma, during a confrontation.
"Yesterday, during a clash, he was hit by El Verdugo de Granma and, unfortunately, did not survive," stated the announcement of his passing.
Michel achieved his remarkable score in a discipline where the highest possible score is 100 points. The judges evaluate both the rider—who must stay on the bull for at least eight seconds with only a single handhold—and the bull, assessing its strength, agility, and ability to unseat the competitor.
The record of 98 points was not without controversy. According to the same source, "it was, at the time, controversial and questioned by many, but those were the points awarded by the judges and later validated by the National Rodeo Commission." This official validation cemented his place in the sport's history.
"Your name and your 98 points will remain forever in the history of Cuban Rodeo," wrote those who bid him farewell, as condolences poured in from across the island's rodeo community.
Michel's Enduring Legacy in Cuban Rodeo
The Cuban cowboy community highlighted Michel's career with a phrase that encapsulates his legacy: "Michel fought, endured, and entertained for many years. He earned his place among the greats and left an indelible mark."
His death comes at a particularly challenging time for Cuban rodeo.
The scarcity of quality bulls—powerful, agile animals capable of sustaining grand spectacles—is an increasing concern within the island's rodeo environment.
"His departure is a significant loss, especially in these times of scarcity of quality bulls, when we so desperately need strong, agile animals capable of delivering the great performances that keep the spirit of Rodeo alive," the publication warned.
The last photograph of Michel shows him lying on dry ground, his horns still visible, in an image that left his followers deeply saddened.
The page called on the community to share photos, videos, and memories of the bull to create a collective tribute.
Michel's loss adds to a somber year for Cuban rodeo. In July 2026, the discipline bid farewell to Carlos Mencía González "Negro Mencía," another of its luminaries, with a poignant funeral procession in Sancti Spíritus. The Cuban cowboy community is thus experiencing a series of losses that weigh heavily on its collective memory.
The Impact of Michel's Passing on Cuban Rodeo
What record did Michel hold in Cuban rodeo?
Michel held the national record for bull riding with a score of 98 points, which is a significant achievement in a sport where the maximum score is 100 points.
How did Michel's passing impact the Cuban rodeo community?
Michel's death is seen as a great loss, particularly in a time when there is a shortage of quality bulls. The community mourns his passing and recognizes his lasting legacy in the sport.
Why was Michel's record score of 98 points controversial?
Michel's record score was controversial because it was questioned by many at the time. However, it was awarded by the judges and later validated by the National Rodeo Commission, securing its place in history.