The Meridian Star
MERIDIAN — After a quarter century, the Toughman Contest continues to lead the fight industry as the only boxing event where the outcome can NEVER be predicted, as the only semi-professional pugilistic version that demands both big boxing gloves and the shortest rounds, and as the event with undeniably the best safety record of all adult boxing. It’s no wonder it’s tied for the highest ratings for Fox Sports on “Best Damn Toughman”. The Original Toughman Contest “hits” town once again, live at the Frank Cochran Community Center, Friday and Saturday, Feb. 26-27 at 8 p.m. Want to Fight? Call 1-800-TUFGUYS. Sponsored by Magnolia Beverage, Miller and Coors Light Beers, Bo Haarala Autoplex, Music Emporium, Aflac Insurance, and Your Place.
Tickets on sale now at Bo Haarala Autoplex and the Music Emporium for only $15, $20 at the door nights of event. Don’t miss the Fighter Weigh in Party, Thursday, Feb. 25, 7 p.m. at Your Place.
A field of 40 local fighters, including Toughwomen is expected. Every competitor will be going toe-to-toe in front of friends and family for a little fame and fortune. Mr. T, one of Toughman’s famous alumni, summed it up, “No wimps allowed. If we wanted a best man, we’d go to a wedding, if we’re looking for a good man, we’ll look in the military, we want the TOUGHEST man!” Daring and dogged fighters fitting the description can register by calling 1-800-TUF-GUYS. In addition to a daredevil attitude, competitors must be at least 18, and pass the on-site physical. Almost $3,000 in cash will be awarded at the conclusion of the finals on Saturday night.
The Original Toughman Contest was founded by an American Original, Art Dore of Bay City, Michigan in 1979. Although no longer involved in the events except to serve as an occasional celebrity announcer, his vision for the event remains today, “Like the heroes of professional boxing, football, automobile racing and other high-risk sports, Toughman Contest offers the common man (or woman) the chance to prove his mettle. And like other sports, while it does carry risk, it provides real people the opportunity to rise up to the top. Whatever human endeavor one chooses, it will carry risk. Some choose to risk their lives on space exploration, some on mountain climbing or football or auto racing stardom. And some choose to follow in the steps of Mr. T., Tommy Morrison or Butterbean. Some people have the arrogance to determine for others which is more worthy. I don’t. “
The Original Toughman Contest is regulated in Mississippi by the Mississippi Boxing Commission and requires, among other elements of safety: 1) doctor at ringside 2) insurance for fighters 3) breathalyzer tests & 4) maximum safety gear.
