The prestigious World Slasher Cup 9-Cock Invitational Derby, which traces its origin in 1963 under the Pintakasi of Champions, starts on Jan. 28 with over 300 entries at the historic Smart Araneta Coliseum.
Nine days of world class cockfighting sizzle at the Big Dome on Jan. 28, 29 and 30 (2 -cock elims), Jan. 31, Feb. 1 and 2 (3 -cock semis), Feb. 3 and 4 (Day 1 and 2 finals) and Feb. 6 (Day 3 grand finals).
Cockfight idol Patrick Antonio, the defending champion with 8.5 points, will shoot for his eighth WSC title in the event backed by Emperador and Powertrac.
Pitgames Media CEO Manny Berbano, runner -up (8 points) last year in partnership with Cris Sioson, Rey Canedo and Doc Ayong Lorenzo of Excellence Poultry and Livestock Specialists, will field the famed 5k Sweaters crossed with Yellow-Legged Hatch of Dink Fair plus Mel Sims Black Kelso Greys of Bobby Fairchild.
Lorenzo emerged solo runner -up in the 2017 edition with teammate Dante Hinlo of Negros Occidental (DVH EDL Excellence entry).
Already in town are foreign participants Marty Bently of Ohio, Erik Rosales, Robert Dominguez and Bruce Brown of California, Butch Cambra of Hawaii, Nathan Jumper of Mississipi, Tim Fitzgerald of Utah, Bobby Fairchild of Kentucky, Brent Douglas of Black Bonanza fame and Ernest Atkins of Tennessee.
Likewise among the early favorites: recent champs Rey Briones, Frank Berin, Escolin Brothers, Gary Tesorero and Magno Lim.
