What is the primary role of a bull fighter in rodeo?

The primary role of a bull fighter in rodeo is to protect the bull rider by distracting the bull after the rider has been bucked off. This critical function ensures that the bull rider can leave the arena safely, as the bull fighter positions themselves between the bull and the rider, using agility and quick thinking to draw the bull’s attention away. This not only minimizes the risk of injury to the rider but also demonstrates the bull fighter's skill in handling dangerous situations in the arena.

While the other roles mentioned are important in the rodeo environment, they do not encompass the bull fighter's specific responsibilities. Judges focus on scoring and evaluating riders’ performances, handlers are involved in the transportation of the bulls, and clowns entertain the audience but do not fulfill the protective duties of a bull fighter. Therefore, the role of distracting the bull and ensuring the rider's safety is the essential focus of the bull fighter's job in rodeo.