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 Oklahoma, cockfighting is illegal and considered a felony offense. The state has specific statutes that address the prohibition of cockfighting, which is outlined in the Oklahoma Statutes, Title 21, Sections 1680 to 1688. These laws not only make it a crime to participate in cockfighting, but also to possess any cockfighting tools, own or train cocks for fighting, and to be a spectator at a cockfighting event. The penalties for engaging in cockfighting activities can include fines, imprisonment, or both. Oklahoma's stance on cockfighting is more stringent than some other states where a first offense might be treated as a misdemeanor. The state's approach reflects a strong position against animal cruelty and the prevention of such blood sports.