Welcome to our comprehensive exploration of the top ten cockfighting breeds. Each of these breeds has been meticulously selected for their unique qualities, historical significance, and remarkable performance in the pit. Whether you're a seasoned breeder or a curious enthusiast, this video will provide valuable insights into what makes these breeds exceptional in the world of cockfighting. 1. Kelso. History and Origin: Developed by Walter Kelso in the 1930s, the Kelso gamefowl is a product of selective breeding aimed at creating a versatile and resilient fighter. Kelso' s meticulous approach involved crossing various bloodlines to enhance the fighting qualities of his birds. Over the years, the Kelso breed has evolved, incorporating different traits from other gamefowl to maintain its competitiveness. Why Kelso: Kelso gamefowls are renowned for their agility, strategic fighting style, and endurance.
They possess a unique ability to adapt mid fight, often outmaneuvering opponents with their clever tactics. Their distinctive appearance, often featuring bright plumage and strong legs, makes them a favorite among breeders. The Kelso' s resilience and ability to recover quickly from injuries make them formidable in prolonged battles. 2. Hatch. History and Origin: The Hatch breed originated in the United States, developed by Sanford Hatch. Known for their robust physicality and aggressive fighting style, Hatch gamefowls quickly became a staple in cockfighting circles. The breed was created by crossing different bloodlines, including the Kearney Whitehackle, to produce a bird that could excel in both offense and defense. Why Hatch: Hatch gamefowls are prized for their power, stamina, and relentless fighting spirit. Their ability to endure long battles and deliver powerful strikes makes them formidable opponents. They are typically characterized by their muscular build and fierce temperament. The Hatch breed is also known for its adaptability to various fighting styles, making them a versatile choice for breeders. 3. Claret. History and Origin: Claret gamefowls were developed by the legendary breeder Judge Leiper in the early 20th century. The breed quickly gained popularity for its striking appearance and exceptional fighting abilities. The Claret' s lineage includes influences from breeds like the Irish Brown Red and the Redquill, which contributed to its distinctive traits. Why Claret: Clarets are celebrated for their speed, accuracy, and cutting ability. They are often used in crossbreeding programs to enhance these traits in other breeds. Their vibrant red plumage and sharp features make them stand out in any lineup. Clarets are known for their intelligence in the pit, often outsmarting their opponents with quick, precise attacks. 4. Roundhead. History and Origin: The Roundhead breed traces its origins to England, where it was developed by British breeders in the 19th century. It was later refined in the United States by breeders like Gilkerson and Allen. The breed' s name comes from its distinct rounded head shape, which sets it apart from other gamefowls. Why Roundhead: Roundheads are known for their intelligence, agility, and precision in the pit. Their ability to think on their feet and execute swift, calculated attacks makes them a top choice for many breeders. They typically have sleek, streamlined bodies and a distinctive, rounded head. Roundheads are also known for their strong legs and quick movements, which allow them to evade attacks and strike back effectively. 5. Grey. History and Origin: Grey gamefowls have a rich history, with various sub- breeds like the Sweater Grey and the Silver Grey. They were developed through careful selection and crossbreeding to enhance their fighting prowess. The breed' s lineage includes influences from breeds like the Albany and the Hatch, contributing to its well- rounded qualities. Why Grey: Grey gamefowls are admired for their balance of power and speed. They are versatile fighters, capable of adapting to different opponents and fighting styles. Their striking grey plumage and robust build add to their appeal. Greys are known for their resilience and endurance, often outlasting their opponents in long battles. 6. Butcher. History and Origin: The Butcher breed was developed by Phil Marsh in the United States. Named for its creator' s profession, the Butcher breed quickly became known for its exceptional fighting abilities. The breed' s lineage includes influences from the Kearney Whitehackle and the Brown Red, which contributed to its distinctive traits. Why Butcher: Butchers are known for their tenacity, resilience, and powerful strikes. They possess a unique combination of strength and speed, making them formidable opponents in the pit. Their distinct, bold appearance often includes a mix of dark and light feathers. Butchers are also known for their intelligence and strategic thinking, often outsmarting their opponents with clever tactics. 7. Sweater. History and Origin: Sweater gamefowls were developed by Carol Nesmith, who named the breed after his mentor, Harold Brown, nicknamed' Sweater.' This breed quickly gained a reputation for its impressive fighting abilities. The Sweater' s lineage includes influences from the Kelso and the Hatch, which contributed to its well- rounded qualities. Why Sweater: Sweaters are celebrated for their speed, cutting ability, and fighting intelligence. They are known for their ability to dominate opponents with quick, precise attacks. Their vibrant, multi- colored plumage and athletic build make them a favorite among breeders. Sweaters are also known for their resilience and ability to recover quickly from injuries, making them formidable in prolonged battles. 8. Asil. History and Origin: The Asil breed originates from India and is one of the oldest gamefowl breeds in the world. Known for their strength and endurance, Asils have been a staple in cockfighting for centuries. The breed' s lineage includes influences from various Asian gamefowls, contributing to its distinctive traits. Why Asil: Asils are renowned for their sheer power, endurance, and strategic fighting style. They are often used in crossbreeding programs to enhance these traits in other breeds. Their muscular build and fierce appearance add to their mystique. Asils are also known for their intelligence and strategic thinking, often outsmarting their opponents with clever tactics. 9. Albany. History and Origin: Albany gamefowls were developed by breeders like E. W. Law and Gullison in the United States. Known for their striking appearance and exceptional fighting abilities, Albanys quickly became popular. The breed' s lineage includes influences from the Claret and the Grey, which contributed to its well- rounded qualities. Why Albany: Albanys are admired for their speed, agility, and cutting ability. They are known for their ability to deliver precise, deadly strikes. Their distinctive plumage, often featuring a mix of red and white, adds to their appeal. Albanys are also known for their resilience and endurance, often outlasting their opponents in long battles. 10. Lemon. History and Origin: The Lemon breed, also known as Lemon 84, was developed by Duke Hulsey in the United States. This breed is named for its creator' s distinctive yellow- legged birds. The Lemon' s lineage includes influences from the Hatch and the Grey, which contributed to its well- rounded qualities. Why Lemon: Lemons are celebrated for their power, speed, and strategic fighting style. They possess a unique combination of strength and agility, making them formidable opponents. Their bright yellow legs and striking plumage make them easy to identify. Lemons are also known for their resilience and ability to recover quickly from injuries, making them formidable in prolonged battles. Conclusion. Each of these top ten cockfighting breeds brings something unique to the table. From the strategic intelligence of the Kelso to the raw power of the Hatch, these breeds represent the pinnacle of gamefowl breeding. Whether you' re interested in their history, physical attributes, or fighting style, these breeds offer a fascinating glimpse into the world of cockfighting. Thank you for joining us on this journey, and we hope this video has provided valuable insights into these remarkable breeds.