Top Jockeys and MLB Pitcher Linked to Illegal Cockfighting in Puerto Rico
Prominent athletes, including Kentucky Derby-winning jockeys Jose Ortiz and Irad Ortiz Jr., and Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Edwin Diaz, have been linked to illegal cockfighting activities in Puerto Rico. USA TODAY Sports uncovered photos and videos on social media appearing to show the Ortiz brothers at a cockfighting club in Naguabo, with one video depicting them collecting money from bettors. This scrutiny arises just days before the brothers are scheduled to compete in the Preakness Stakes. Similarly, Edwin Diaz was identified in promotional materials for cockfighting tournaments and photographed inside an arena, despite a federal ban on the practice in U.S. territories since 2019. While Diaz previously defended the activity as a legal cultural pastime in Puerto Rico, participants now face potential criminal penalties, including prison time and fines. Neither the Ortiz brothers nor Diaz responded to requests for comment regarding these allegations. The reports highlight the ongoing tension between local cultural traditions and federal law enforcement efforts to eradicate animal fighting rings in the region.
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