Regular Joes will be lacing up the gloves this weekend at the Frank Cochran Community Center as the Original Toughman Contest comes to Meridian for the fifth consecutive year.

The competition features locals who will compete in boxing matches for up to $3,000 in cash prizes. The event is 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday.

Local Toughman director Russ Andreacchio said the competition is for local people to experience the sport of boxing.

“This is for people who have always wanted to box but didn’t have the opportunity or the time,” Andreacchio said. “There’s a chance for people from all professions, from construction workers to bartenders who have limited boxing skills or experience. It’s a good opportunity for people to see what they’ve got.”

Another incentive is the $3,000 in cash prizes that will be given away as well as the possibility for the winners to compete in the Toughman World Championship competition for a chance to take home $20,000.

“This Meridian competition is a stepping stone for the world championship,” Andreacchio said. “Both of the winners in Meridian last year went on to compete in the worlds.”

There are two weight classes, heavyweight and light heavyweight, and Andreacchio said he expects about 30 fighters to compete.

People interested in fighting can still sign up for the event. A weight-in will be conducted at Art’s Shedhouse on 8th Street Thursday at 7 p.m. Those who miss the weigh-in on Thursday still may enter the contest by showing up at the Cochran Center at 5:30 Friday for another weigh-in.

Andreacchio said there have always been large crowds in the past, and he expects another good turnout this year.

“This is a really big event,” Andreacchio said. “This is the fifth year it has been in Meridian and we’ve always had a good turnout. I expect a really great crowd this year.”

The competition will be highlighted by the appearance of Toughman founder Art Dore. Dore attended the first two Toughman events in Meridian and is back after a two-year absence.

Tickets are $15 bought in advance and $20 at the door. Advance tickets may be purchased at either Bo Haraala Auto Plex or the Music Emporium.