Duke Roufus, MMA Coach to Champions, Dies at 55

Duke Roufus, a legendary kickboxer and revered mixed martial arts coach, has died. He was 55 years old. The founder of Milwaukee’s Roufusport MMA Academy passed away peacefully in his sleep.

His death was confirmed by longtime friend and business partner Scott Joffe. The news has sent waves of grief through the global combat sports community.

Building Champions and a Lasting Legacy

Roufus was a celebrated kickboxing champion before becoming a master coach. He won multiple world titles in his own fighting career. His technical striking skills were unmatched.

He later founded Roufusport, one of MMA’s most respected gyms. There, he trained a generation of elite fighters. According to Reuters, his influence reshaped modern striking in MMA.

His most famous protégés include former UFC champions Anthony Pettis and Tyron Woodley. He also coached Bellator champion Ben Askren and UFC contender Sergio Pettis. His methods produced undeniable results.

A Father Figure Beyond the Gym

For many fighters, Roufus was more than a coach. He was a mentor and a father figure. This was especially true for Anthony Pettis.

Pettis posted an emotional tribute on Instagram. He said Roufus guided him after his own father’s death. Roufus helped him become a UFC champion.

This personal connection defined his coaching philosophy. He invested deeply in his fighters’ lives. His impact extended far beyond wins and losses.

The Roufusport Academy will continue its operations. It stands as a permanent monument to his vision and dedication to the sport.

The combat sports world has lost a true pioneer. Duke Roufus’s legacy will live on through the champions he built and the lives he changed. His death leaves a void in MMA history.

Thought you’d like to know

Who was Duke Roufus?

Duke Roufus was a world champion kickboxer and a highly influential MMA coach. He founded the famous Roufusport Academy in Milwaukee. He trained multiple UFC champions.

How did Duke Roufus die?

He died peacefully in his sleep. He was 55 years old at the time of his passing. No specific cause of death has been publicly disclosed.

Which famous fighters did he train?

He coached notable fighters like Anthony Pettis, Sergio Pettis, and Tyron Woodley. He also guided the career of Ben Askren. His gym produced several champions across major promotions.

What will happen to Roufusport gym?

The Roufusport MMA Academy will continue to operate. The gym remains committed to his coaching philosophy and legacy. It is a leading training center for fighters.

Why was he so important to MMA?

He bridged the gap between traditional kickboxing and modern MMA. His innovative striking techniques elevated the entire sport. He was a true architect of modern fight training.