The new year is off to an exciting start as the World Slasher Cup–often regarded as the Olympics of Cockfighting–is set to return to the Smart Araneta Coliseum this Jan. 20 to 26.

Now in its 62nd year, this highly anticipated event continues to draw the finest breeders and cockfighting enthusiasts from across the globe, promising another thrilling week of non-stop action and exhilaration.

The upcoming derby will unfold over six thrilling days of cockfighting action. The eliminations will kick off on Jan. 20 and 21, followed by the semi-finals on Jan, 22 and 23. After a day to regroup, the pre-finals on Jan. 25 will determine the top contenders for the grand finals the following day, where the ultimate champion will be crowned.

For decades, the World Slasher Cup has been the proving ground for the best in the sport. Iconic names such as Mike Formosa from Hawaii, Ray Alexander from Texas, and Filipino legends Patrick Antonio, Ed Apari, and Biboy Enriquez have all made their mark here.

This year’s event builds on the success of past competitions, showcasing the best talent in the sport.

Earlier in the year, the 1st edition of the 2024 World Slasher Cup crowned six outstanding entries as champions: Coliseum De Manila (Fiscal Villanueva & John Francis Ventenilla), Goldquest Hagibis LDI (Osang Dela Cruz), Chicken Joy GF (John Gutierrez), For The Love Of The Game (Joe Paneda, Ron Aguado, Jimmy Rimando & Eman Pichay), FBG Luba (Frany Joy Brillantes,  Junel Dacquel From Abra), Thunderbird III (Nene Araneta)

While in the 2nd edition held in May, the Mulawin entry of multi-titled champion Frank Berin, Jeremy Berin & Justin Berin, and the combined Gitt Tonio entry of Mike and Tonio Romulo and Owen Medina of Guam, shared the championship title with an impressive 8-1 win-loss record.

“The world’s top breeders and cockfighting enthusiasts are converging once more, bringing their prized entries to the World Slasher Cup for a shot at the ultimate glory and a place in the sport’s history,” said Irene Jose, COO of Uniprom.