Ugliest or Most Beautiful Horse in the World? Experts Still Debate About El Rey Magnum

In 2017, a weird looking horse burst upon the equine scene throwing several into a dilemma about his looks. El Rey Magnum, a purebred Arabian horse certainly did look weird, in fact he looked just like Maximus, the horse from Disney’s Tangled. El Rey sparked an interesting debate with people divided over whether he was the most beautiful horse in the world or the ugliest. With his distinct and exaggerated facial structure, his appearance attracted attention from both admirers and critics. El Rey Magnum still alive and a stud in Italy has even won several awards, which is why we would like you, our readers to tell us what you think about this once viral sensation.

The Legacy of El Rey Magnum

El Rey Magnum was bred by Orrion Farms in Ellensburg, Washington. In 2017, he became  viral sensation when the farm launched him to the world in a video in which they called him “The King.” A tagline said “You won’t believe your eyes” and of course that’s exactly what happened. People wondered in disbelief at the weird looking horse and his highly exaggerated facial structure. With his distinctive dished face and high tail carriage, he was bred not for his abilities but for his looks.

He is Worth Several Million Dollars

As a colt, El Rey was worth several million dollars, and yet a huge figure of controversy due to his extreme breeding. One section of Equine experts praised his beauty while another questioned the techniques used to create his appearance. Others felt he was just bizarre.

His Breeders Considered Him Perfection

El Rey was an Arabian horse but what set him apart from his breed was the extreme curvature of his face. While Arabian horses typically have a slightly dished profile, El Rey Magnum’s face appears more extreme, raising concerns about potential health problems. His breeders at Orrion Farms described him as a “stepping stone to perfection” in terms of Arabian beauty standards.

The Arabian Horse: A Breed with a Rich History

The Arabian horse is one of the most ancient and revered breeds in the world, known for its intelligence, endurance, spirited temperament, and striking beauty. These horses are often recognized by their dished faces, slender necks, and high tail carriage, which made them perfect for the dry desert environments they historically thrived in. The dished face of Arabian horses was an evolutionary trait that helped them breathe more easily in arid conditions, but this characteristic has been significantly exaggerated in some modern breeding practices.

Health Concerns for El Rey Magnum

Veterinarians and animal welfare advocates have raised concerns about El Rey Magnum’s extreme facial structure. They felt the extreme curvature seen in his snout could result in restricted airways, breathing difficulties and long-term health issues. Many have compared his case to extreme breeding practices seen in dogs and cats, which have resulted in similar health challenges. Given everything, El Rey’s breeders have consistently argued that El Rey Magnum has always been a  healthy, show-ready, and thriving animal.

He Has Won Several Awards

In 2018, El Rey Magnum vowed judges in several equine shows across the world winning the Arabian World Championships – Yearling Colt Most Beautiful Head – Paris, France, Silver Champion-Arabian Breeders Cup Yearling Colt Supreme Championship and Unanimous Champion-Scottsdale International Arabian Breeders Classic Yearling Colt all in the same year. He also won the Silver Championship at the Arabian Breeders World Cup, Las Vegas.

El Rey Magnum’s Role as a Stud

Despite the controversy surrounding his appearance, El Rey Magnum’s role as a stud has attracted attention from breeders worldwide. His offspring are likely to carry the same exaggerated facial structure that has made him famous, potentially extending this breeding trend to future generations. As a prized stud, his genetics will play a significant role in shaping the future of Arabian horse breeding, raising further questions about the ethics of such extreme physical traits.

The Future of El Rey Magnum

El Rey Magnum is a symbol of both beauty and controversy in the world of Arabian horse breeding. His role as a stud ensures that his influence will continue shaping the future of Arabian horses for years to come. He is now enjoying quiet pastures, green grass, and beautiful mares. Now that you’ve seen El Rey, check out a short video of this cool stallion and tell us what you think? ugly, weird, or beautiful? Be that as it may, he is one of the world’s most unique looking horses.