I’m a Spain legend – now I’m preparing to risk my life as a BULLFIGHTER

SPAIN legend Joaquin is ready to become a bullfighter after hanging up his boots.

The former Real Betis star retired in April last year at the grand old age of 41.

Joaquin has been training with bullfightersGetty

He has since moved upstairs and has a role at board level, though cheekily lured fans into thinking he had returned to playing just before the new year with a traditional festive prank in the press.

Joaquin has been busy in retirement and intends to stay that way, with the former winger training almost daily with bullfighters.

He is now preparing for his first event, which takes place in his home town El Puerto de Santa María according to Spanish outlet AS.

Joaquin has had a passion for bullfighting for several years and even invited several matadors to his wedding.

His uncle took him to classes to train to be a bullfighter when he was growing up, but football took over as Joaquin dedicated his time to Real Betis’ academy.

He ended up making 528 appearances for the LaLiga side over two spells.

And towards the end of his second stint at the club he celebrated a goal against Osasuna by dancing with a cape “borrowed” from legendary bullfighter Francisco Rivera Ordonez.

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His team-mate Dani remarked: “Joaquin was the one leading the way in the celebrations.

“That is the way he is — with his jokes and everything. We had a very good time, as we always did. The truth is Joaquin would make a very good bullfighter.”