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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
National
Ebrahim Noroozi

Photos of cockfighting in Afghan capital show a bloody pastime thriving in the shadows

APTOPIX Afghanistan Cockfighting Photo Gallery - (Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved)

When a cockfight begins in Kabul, the noise is immediate. Roars of “Hit!” and “Kill!” erupt among spectators as two birds lunge at each other, feathers and blood flying.

This centuries-old blood sport, once a common winter pastime, now takes place year-round in the Afghan capital, driven not just by tradition but by poverty, unemployment and desperation.

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