A cock is the male of any type of domestic fowl, and cockfighting is a blood sport in which two (or more) cocks are placed in a ring or confined area and encouraged to attack or fight each other. Cockfighting is illegal in all 50 states and the District of Columbia—but remains legal in Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Although cockfighting is illegal in all states, the potential punishment for the crime varies from state to state. In thirteen states, a first offense charge of cockfighting is a misdemeanor—including Alabama, California, Hawaii, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, New Mexico, Ohio, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Utah, and West Virginia. But in California, Louisiana, and New Mexico, second, third, and subsequent offenses may be prosecuted as felonies.

And some states also prohibit possession of cockfighting tools (implements) such as a gaff or slasher; ownership and training of cocks for the purpose of cockfighting; and attending cockfighting events.
Cockfighting laws are generally located in a state’s statutes—and usually in the state’s penal or criminal code.

In Alabama, cockfighting is considered illegal and is classified as a misdemeanor for a first offense. The state's statutes, which can be found in the penal or criminal code, outline the illegality of this activity. While the initial charge for engaging in cockfighting is a misdemeanor, it's important to note that the severity of penalties can vary for subsequent offenses. Additionally, Alabama law may also address the prohibition of possession of cockfighting implements, the ownership and training of cocks for fighting, as well as attending events related to cockfighting. It is crucial for individuals to be aware that despite the variation in penalties among states, engaging in cockfighting activities is a criminal offense in Alabama and can lead to legal consequences.