About The Original Toughman Contest

For over 40 years, the Original Toughman Contest has highlighted the best that amateur boxing has to offer. It has introduced the world to such legendary fighters as heavyweight boxing champion Tommy Morrison, UFC fighter Forrest Griffin, super-heavyweight champion and “King of the Four-Rounders” Eric “Butterbean” Esch and ’80s icon Mr. T. The competition has given novice amateur boxers the opportunity to prove themselves in the ring, and the chance to gain experience and exposure throughout the world of boxing.

The Original Toughman Contest has continued to evolve, taking safety and changing tastes into consideration. In 2019, Toughman Pro brings the classic Toughman format to the professional ranks in sanctioned one-night, eight-fighter Battle Royale PPV events, starting with the heavyweight-class “Night of the Heavies.” All fights in this tournament are sanctioned by their local jurisdictions, using tournament rules set by the British Boxing Board of Control. By bringing the drive and emotion of amateur boxing to the professional ranks, and by bringing a touch of professionalism to amateur boxing, Toughman Pro will introduce a new generation to the short, intense brawls that Toughman contests are known for.

The Toughman contest format was founded in 1979 by Bay City, Michigan, demolition company owner Art Dore and his friend Dean Oswald, as a way to prove amongst friends who the toughest fighter was in an amateur setting. Over the years, the sport grew in popularity, peaking in the ’80s and ’90s with national TV coverage, a video game and even the 1983 movie Tough Enough, starring Dennis Quaid and Warren Oates, which was loosely based on Art Dore and his Toughman competitions. In the 21st century, Toughman has focused its attention on events in Oklahoma, West Virginia and Ohio, but it continues to host and air events nationwide. For more information on Original Toughman and Toughman Pro, check out toughmanpro.com.