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 Wisconsin, cockfighting is illegal and considered a serious crime. Under Wisconsin law, specifically section 951.08 of the Wisconsin Statutes, cockfighting is classified as a Class I felony. This means that individuals involved in cockfighting can face significant penalties, including fines and imprisonment. The law not only prohibits the actual act of cockfighting but also extends to the possession, training, and transport of roosters for fighting purposes, as well as the possession of cockfighting implements. Additionally, being a spectator at a cockfighting event is also illegal and can result in criminal charges. The penalties for these offenses can include fines of up to $10,000 and/or imprisonment for up to 3.5 years. Wisconsin's stance on cockfighting reflects a strong position against animal cruelty and the enforcement of animal welfare laws.