One of the area’s biggest drawing events returns to the Williamson Fieldhouse this weekend as the 14th Annual Rough N' Rowdy Brawl boxing contest will get underway tonight and tomorrow nights, February 6th and 7th.

This has become an annual event in Williamson and one of it’smost popular with over 2,500 people nightly in attendance. And promoter Chris Smith is always glad to return his crew to the Tug Valley area.

“We have some big surprises that will surely please the fighters and fans this weekend.” said Smith of the weekend extravaganza. “A record number of fighters are registered this year.”

The first punch will be thrown at 7:30 p.m. both nights. Area contestants will be competing for prize monies, trophies, championship jackets and the prestige of being the roughest in the Tug Valley.

In one of the best exhibitions of boxing found anywhere, there will be approximately 40 fights each night averaging 12 fights an hour. Each contestant will fight once on Friday night.

The winners will return Saturday night for a single elimination tournament. After three or four series of eliminations, there will be a champion in each weight class.

The men’s divisions consist of lightweights from 130 to 159 lbs., middleweights from 160 to 184 lbs. and heavy weights from 185 to 400 lbs. The women’s divisions consist of light weights from 100 to 160 lbs. and heavy weights from 161 to 400 lbs.

The West Virginia Athletic Commission will appoint the officials, doctors, judges, referees, and sanction all bouts.

“Safety is ensured by all contestants wearing heavily padded 16 oz. gloves, protective headgear, a groin protector, and a mouth piece,” says fight promoter Chris Smith. “It is not as safe as playing checkers or chess but it’s as safe as we can make it”

Safety is always first in Smith’s mind when putting these local fighters in the ring. “Contestants undergo pre-fight physicals and a ringside physician along with skilled referees will be on hand.”

A crowd favorite is the ring girl contest. Smith says it remains one of the staples of the promotion. “ The winner is chosen by a crowd applause meter.” Smith explained. These ladies have to get out there and convince the crowd to cheer for them the most.”

Smith said this year the prizes were better than ever for the ring girl contest. “The winner will take home a championship jacket, trophy and $1,000 dollars. Second place wins $250,” says Smith.

Championship jackets, trophies and up to $7,500 in prize monies will be shared among the following three men’s weight divisions, two women’s classes and the ring girl contest.

Tickets are on sale at Williamson Gun and Archery and Western Auto in Kermit. They are also on sale today at the Williamson Fieldhouse box office from 4pm until late tonight. Kids 12 and under tickets are just eight dollars. Adult general admission tickets at the gate are $15. All VIP reserved seats are $20. According to Smith “We still have plenty of seats, so we’re looking forward to having a big crowd and to seeing all our friends in the Tug Valley”.

For more information or sign-up registration, call 1-800-59-PUNCH or visit www.boxingcontest.com.