1. a boxing match or fight characterized by heavy punching with little defensive skill
Usage: informal
2. any intense contest or competition marked by aggressive back-and-forth action
Usage: informal

Examples

• The championship bout turned into a real slugfest with both fighters trading heavy blows.
• The debate became a political slugfest between the two candidates.
• Last night’s hockey game was a slugfest with multiple fights breaking out.
• The election campaign devolved into a media slugfest.
• Both teams came out swinging in what became an offensive slugfest.
• The legal battle turned into a courtroom slugfest lasting months.