The mixed martial arts (MMA) world mourns the loss of Duke Roufus, renowned coach and former kickboxer, who passed away at the age of 55. Roufus, founder of Roufusport in Milwaukee, died on Thursday while sleeping, according to Scott Joffe, a long-time friend and business partner. Roufus was a key figure in the MMA world, known for his work as a coach of multiple world champions, including Anthony Pettis, Sergio Pettis, Tyron Woodley, and Ben Askren.
Roufus was not only a renowned coach, but also a mentor and innovator. His influence transformed the landscape of mixed martial arts. Roufus’s impact extended to numerous high-level athletes, but his relationship with the Pettis brothers was a defining chapter in his career. Anthony Pettis, former UFC lightweight champion, shared an emotional message on Instagram.Before his successful coaching career, Roufus also made his mark in kickboxing, following in the footsteps of his older brother, Rick Roufus. Roufus 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 the Roufusport MMA Academy, who passed away peacefully in his sleep,” wrote Joffe on Facebook.
Scott Joffe
