dogfight

(noun) a fiercely disputed contest. Examples: "Their rancor dated from a political dogfight between them." "A real dogfight for third place." "A prolonged dogfight over their rival bids for the contract."

(noun) disorderly fighting. Synonyms: hassle, scuffle, tussle, rough-and-tumble.

(noun) an aerial engagement between fighter planes.

(noun) a violent fight between dogs (sometimes organized illegally for entertainment and gambling).

(verb) arrange for an illegal dogfight.

(verb) engage in an aerial battle with another fighter plane.