He began fighting bulls at age 14 in Mexico City, and moved to Spain in 1944.

Arruza retired to a ranch outside Mexico City in 1953, but made a comeback as a rejoneador, fighting bulls from horseback.

According to Arizona Daily Star historical writer David Leighton, it may be the only street in the U.S. named after a bullfighter.

The composition "Carlos", by jazz composer and bandleader Gerald Wilson, is dedicated to Arruza.

[1] The piece features virtuoso trumpet playing and has been recorded three times by Wilson's band: in 1966 with Jimmy Owens on trumpet, 1989 with Oscar Brashear, and 1995 with Ron Barrows.