THE prestigious and long -running 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.

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 bagged solo runner -up honors in the 2017 edition with team mate 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

Interested paries may call the WSC derby office at 588 -8227 cor 911 -2928 or visit the website www.worldslashercup.ph.         Among the sponsors: Emperador and Powertrac.

The WSC Cup 2 is  scheduled on May 22 -28.