Duke Roufus, Kickboxing Legend and MMA Trainer, Passes Away
The mixed martial arts (MMA) world mourns the loss of Duke Roufus, a renowned former kickboxer and one of the most respected coaches in the history of this sport. Roufus, founder of Roufusport in Milwaukee, passed away on Thursday while sleeping, according to Scott Joffe, a close friend and long-time business partner. Roufus was widely known in the MMA community for his work as the head coach of multiple former world champions, including Anthony Pettis, Sergio Pettis, Tyron Woodley, and Ben Askren.Roufus coached numerous elite athletes, but his relationship with the Pettis brothers was a defining chapter in his career.Before his successful coaching career, Roufus accumulated several titles in kickboxing, following in the footsteps of his older brother, Rick Roufus. He achieved championships in various organizations, including WKA, WAKO, WKBA, KICK, and IKF.Today, the Roufusport family and the martial arts world have been shaken by the heartbreaking news of the passing of Duke Roufus, renowned MMA coach, founder and namesake of Roufusport MMA Academy, who passed away peacefully in his sleep. Duke was more than a celebrated coach and kickboxing champion; he was a mentor, innovator, father, and friend whose influence transformed the landscape of mixed martial arts.
Scott Joffe
