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Zamboanga, Philippines - A rooster about to be set loose for a bout in a crowded cockfighting arena attacked its handler with the razor-sharp steel spikes strapped to its legs, killing the stunned man, police said on Tuesday.

The gaffs hit the man's thigh and groin as the bird made one rapid shuffle, causing him to bleed profusely on Sunday before a large crowd of shocked spectators, police investigator Johnny Muhajil said.

The man died while being brought to a hospital in Zamboanga, a bustling port city about 850km south of Manila, he said.

Cockfighting is an extremely popular gambling sports in the Philippines, especially in rural areas. - Sapa-AP