Millions watch viral spider fighting video on TikTok
TikTok video of spider fighting garners 3.4 million views, sparks debate
Social media users are sharing similar reactions to a viral video showcasing ‘spider fighting.’ Beyond mainstream sports like football, baseball, and basketball, the world of sport includes unique activities such as ostrich racing, chess boxing, Sepak takraw, and cheese rolling.
Currently trending online is the sport of spider fighting. Popular in Malaysia, Japan, and the Philippines, spider fighting typically involves two female spiders battling to the death. Research from Ateneo de Manila University by Ty Matejowsky in 2003 reveals that children and adults in the Philippines collect, train, and rehabilitate spiders for these duels.
Matches are organised with betting involved, and the study notes that for many youths, this activity can lead to a lifelong gambling habit. The sport usually starts with participants placing spiders at the end of a stick, often made of bamboo or a broom handle. The spiders are then prodded along until they encounter another spider. The duel begins, and the surviving spider is declared the winner.
So I guess Spider fighting is a thing 🤔 pic.twitter.com/LsPkbld9yk
— Bilbro Baggins (@Jbanklestankle1) October 6, 2024
While not outright illegal, spider fighting is frowned upon in some regions. Several Asian cities have enacted ordinances against it. Despite this, a recent spider fight video has gained traction online. Earlier this month, TikTok user @ricktastico posted a clip of a spider derby. The video shows two spiders moving along a stick before engaging in combat. The victorious spider is then placed back in its box to rest before the next fight.
The 55-second video has garnered 3.4 million views, with many TikTok users commenting on the spectacle. One user wrote, “No way I just saw a spider get boxed irl,” while another said, “Spider getting boxed up before GTA 6 is insane.” Another viewer remarked, “I would become heavily addicted to gambling to this,” and a fourth shared, “Did this in 6th grade with 20 people and a brown widow vs black widow. Just Florida things.”
Others expressed curiosity, with one asking, “How bored are you to start a spider fight club? How did you find out spiders would fight each other? Where/who makes all the supplies?” Another user commented, “People be doing everything but learning at school.”
What Other Media Are Saying
- Daily Mail: TikTok’s spider-fighting trend gains 3.4 million views, highlighting online content’s viral potential and social fascination with unusual challenges.(read more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
What is spider fighting?
Spider fighting involves two female spiders battling to the death, popular in Malaysia, Japan, and the Philippines.
Where is spider fighting popular?
Spider fighting is popular in Malaysia, Japan, and the Philippines.
How do people participate in spider fighting?
Participants place spiders at the end of a stick, prod them along until they encounter another spider, and the duel begins.
Is spider fighting legal?
While not outright illegal, spider fighting is frowned upon in some regions and banned in several Asian cities.
What are the risks associated with spider fighting?
Research suggests that spider fighting can lead to lifelong gambling habits, especially among youths.
