The bloodsport of bug fighting has been popular in Asian culture for almost 2,000 years. Cricket fighting has roots in China, beetle fighting in Thailand, and spider fighting in the Philippines.
Though it has ancient beginnings, the subculture is not dead. In August of 2004, Hong Kong police busted 115 people involved in an insect-fighting gambling ring, according to ABC News of Australia.
There are also a couple of Web sites dedicated to bug fighting. has videos of 30 matchups between beetles, spiders, scorpions, wasps, centipedes and everything in between. All of these fights are dubbed with Japanese commentary that ranges from enthusiastic to somber. Users are also encouraged to e-mail their own videos of bug fights to the Web site.
The rules of bug fighting, some of which are strangely similar to "Fight Club," are listed on the Web site:
1. Two bugs to a fight
2. Bug fights go on as long as they have to
3. No outside weapons in bug fights
The "no outside weapons" rule seems excessive. Many of the fights would be more exciting if the bugs were allowed to carry chains, switchblades or brass knuckles. Even a small firearm probably wouldn't be too detrimental to the integrity of the sport.
One thing is for sure: any animal rights activist who previously ignored ethical issues relating to the treatment of insects may develop new moral convictions after watching these videos.
