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 Tennessee, cockfighting is considered illegal and is classified as a misdemeanor for a first offense. This aligns with the state's stance on animal cruelty and the prohibition of blood sports involving animals. Tennessee's statutes, specifically within the penal or criminal code, outline the illegality of cockfighting and the associated penalties. While the initial charge for engaging in cockfighting activities is a misdemeanor, repeat offenses could potentially lead to more severe charges. Additionally, Tennessee law may also address the possession of cockfighting implements, the ownership and training of cocks for fighting purposes, and the attendance of cockfighting events, imposing penalties for such activities. It is important for individuals to be aware of these regulations and the consequences of participating in or facilitating cockfighting in any form.