Duke Roufus, MMA Legend and Champion Coach, Passes Away at 55

Duke Roufus, Kickboxing Legend and MMA Trainer, Passes Away

The mixed martial arts world mourns the loss of Duke Roufus, renowned former kickboxer and one of the most respected coaches in MMA history, 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. Roufus was widely known in the MMA community for being the head coach of multiple former world champions.

• Anthony Pettis
• Sergio Pettis
• Tyron Woodley
• Ben Askren

Today, the Roufusport family and the martial arts world were shocked by the heartbreaking news of the passing of Duke Roufus, renowned top-tier MMA coach, founder and namesake of Roufusport MMA Academy, who passed away peacefully in his sleep.

Scott Joffe

Roufus was 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 his feelings about Roufus’ death on Instagram.

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Before his coaching career, Roufus earned several kickboxing titles, following in the footsteps of his older brother, Rick Roufus. He won titles in multiple organizations, including WKA, WAKO, WKBA, KICK, and IKF.