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 Arizona, cockfighting is illegal under state law. It is classified as a serious crime, and individuals involved in cockfighting activities can face felony charges. Arizona law prohibits not only the act of cockfighting itself but also the ownership, possession, and training of cocks for fighting purposes. Additionally, the law extends to the prohibition of being present at a cockfighting event as a spectator. The possession of cockfighting implements, such as gaffs or slashers, is also illegal. The penalties for these offenses can include fines, imprisonment, and other legal consequences. Arizona's statutes on cockfighting can be found in the state's penal or criminal code, reflecting the state's strong stance against this form of animal cruelty.