Duke Roufus, Legendary MMA Trainer, Passes Away
The mixed martial arts (MMA) world mourns the loss of Duke Roufus, renowned coach and former kickboxer. Roufus, an emblematic figure in the history of this sport, passed away at the age of 55. The news was confirmed by Scott Joffe, friend and business partner of Roufus, who reported that the coach died in his sleep last Thursday. Roufus was the founder of Roufusport in Milwaukee. Roufus is widely recognized in the MMA community for his work as the head coach of multiple world champions. Among his pupils are figures such as Anthony Pettis, Sergio Pettis, Tyron Woodley, and Ben Askren.Joffe added that Roufus was much more than a coach and a kickboxing champion; he was a mentor, an innovator, a father, and a friend whose influence transformed the landscape of mixed martial arts. Roufus’ relationship with the Pettis brothers was one of the most outstanding chapters of his career. Anthony, former UFC lightweight champion, shared his feelings on social media.Before his successful coaching career, Roufus also made his mark in kickboxing, following in the footsteps of his brother Rick Roufus. During his career, he conquered titles in various organizations, including WKA, WAKO, WKBA, KICK, and IKF.Today, the Roufusport family and the martial arts world were shocked by the sad news of the passing of Duke Roufus, renowned MMA coach, founder and namesake of the Roufusport MMA Academy, who passed away peacefully in his sleep.
Scott Joffe
