A 6th-century BC seal from Jaazaniah in Mizpah, near Jerusalem, features an early image of a fighting rooster. Archaeological sites from Israel's Iron Age have yielded remains of these birds, indicating their use in combat. Seals from the period depict roosters symbolizing ferocity, like the red jasper seal inscribed "Jehoahaz, son of the king," likely belonging to Jehoahaz of Judah. These early representations of fighting chicken breeds show the longstanding cultural significance of gamecocks in ancient societies.
Iravatham Mahadevan suggests Mohenjo-daro's ancient name was Kukkutarma ("City of the Cockerel"). However, recent studies indicate these birds may not have contributed significantly to modern domestic fowl. Instead, fighting chicken breeds likely spread globally from the Harappan culture (2500-2100 BC), influencing cockfighting traditions across civilizations. The role of chickens in early societies is evident, particularly in their use for sport rather than as a food source.
Within the Indus Valley, chickens were used for sport, not food, gaining religious significance by 1000 BC. Fighting chicken breeds became more prominent in cultures like China, where the first recorded cockfight occurred in 517 BC. This long history highlights the global reach and cultural importance of fighting chicken breeds, shaping the traditions we know today.
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