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From The Times
August 2, 2007

Pet beetles battle it out in the ring

Children use sticks to control their beetles in a miniature boxing ring during the IWBC

TOKYO Boxing beetles faced up to each other in the “Kids’ Beetle King” championships yesterday. The rhino beetles, which look like miniature tanks with a horn, are popular pets among Japanese boys, who catch them in the summer and breed them.

“I like them because they are strong fighters,” said Handa, 9, petting his favourite beetle in the palm of his hand.

Before the boxing bouts, the beetles were raced to eliminate the slow and the weak. When it came to the fighting, some had to be coaxed by their owners, while others went straight into the attack. (Reuters)

Back flipping awesome! I want to battle Beetles! The best part is that they DON'T actually get hurt. All you guys who thought otherwise fail... The beetles just flip one another over on their backs. Anyone know where I can buy some? Considering they are from Japan it's not like I can catch and breed my own.

drunkenbakaotaku, Bronx, NY

imprisoned? wow thats a bit harsh.
Anyone that would place the life of an invertebrate over that of a higher primate should be on serious medication.
Insect fighting has been going on for a long time now,from crickets to beetles,and praying mantids,it's not going to stop anytime soon.
Comparing this to Vick's dog fighting is absurd and has no base in reality.

Dan, Las Vegas,

This is no different than Michael Vick. These small children should be imprisoned and have their livelihood taken away from them.

Marcus, Atlanta, GA

theyre bugs people.. u killed one just the other day when it found its way into your house... and what the hell does this article have to do with south korean hostages

Jared, Binghamton, NY

As for the South Korean hostages. No disrespect, but how naive are these people? Do they not realize they are dealing with people that have no regard for human life or conventional decency? I mean, anyone who believes that they will ascend directly to heaven after blowing themselves and innocent victims apart isa bit whacked, don't you think? C'mon folks, let's stay out of the war zones.

Mike, Maple Park, USA

Better beetles then pit bulls.

Mike, Maple Park, US

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