The mixed martial arts (MMA) world mourns the loss of Duke Roufus, a renowned coach and former kickboxer, at the age of 55. Roufus, founder of Roufusport in Milwaukee, passed away in his sleep on Thursday, according to Scott Joffe, a long-time friend and business partner.
A Legacy in the Ring
Roufus is widely recognized in the MMA community for his successful career as the head coach of multiple former world champions. Among his most prominent pupils are Anthony Pettis, Sergio Pettis, Tyron Woodley, and Ben Askren.Joffe added that Roufus was much more than a coach and kickboxing champion; he was a mentor, innovator, father, and friend whose influence transformed the landscape of mixed martial arts. Roufus’ relationship with the Pettis brothers was a defining chapter in his career. Anthony, former UFC lightweight champion, shared an emotional message on Instagram.Before his outstanding career as a coach, Roufus also achieved success in kickboxing, following in the footsteps of his older brother, Rick Roufus. He won titles in various organizations, including WKA, WAKO, WKBA, KICK, and IKF.Today, the Roufusport family and the martial arts world were shocked 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.
Scott Joffe
