From knockouts to Champions: How Duke Roufus became the heart of modern MMA before his death at 55
MMA mourns Duke Roufus, coach of UFC champions, dead at 55. Image Credit: USA Today Sports
The MMA world is mourning the loss of Duke Roufus, a celebrated kickboxing champion turned elite mixed martial arts coach, who passed away peacefully in his sleep at the age of 55. The heartbreaking news was confirmed on Friday by longtime friend and business partner Scott Joffe, marking the end of an era for one of the sport’s most respected minds.
A Pillar of Modern MMA Coaching
Roufus was the founder and head coach of Roufusport MMA Academy in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, a gym that produced some of the sport’s biggest champions and stars. Known for his deep technical knowledge, charismatic teaching style, and fatherly mentorship, Roufus became a cornerstone of modern MMA training philosophy.
“Duke was more than a celebrated trainer and champion kickboxer, he was a mentor, innovator, father, and friend,” Joffe wrote in an emotional Facebook post. “His influence transformed the landscape of mixed martial arts.”
From Kickboxing Champion to MMA Mentor
Before he became one of the most respected coaches in MMA, Roufus was an eight-time world kickboxing champion. Following in the footsteps of his brother Rick “The Jet” Roufus, he won titles across multiple organizations, including WKA, WAKO, WKBA, KICK, and IKF, finishing his kickboxing career with an impressive record of 36-8-1 (26 KOs).
After retiring from kickboxing in 2008, Roufus transitioned to full-time coaching, dedicating his life to nurturing fighters and building champions.
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The Fighters Who Defined His Legacy
Roufus’ name became synonymous with elite-level coaching and championship success. His Wisconsin-based gym trained several world champions across major promotions:
- Anthony “Showtime” Pettis, former UFC Lightweight Champion
- Sergio Pettis, Bellator Bantamweight Champion
- Tyron Woodley, former UFC Welterweight Champion
- Ben Askren, Bellator and ONE Championship titleholder
His mentorship extended far beyond the octagon, Roufus was known for guiding fighters through life’s personal challenges. Anthony Pettis’ tribute captured that bond perfectly:
“When my dad was killed, you took me in and became my father. Together we did the impossible and made it to the top! I will make sure your legacy continues on.”
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Roufusport also served as the training ground for MMA stars like Belal Muhammad, Rose Namajunas, and even WWE’s CM Punk. His approach combined discipline, creativity, and deep respect for martial arts tradition.
Colleagues describe him as a man whose “knowledge, charisma, and passion inspired countless fighters to reach heights they never imagined.” His sudden death leaves an irreplaceable void in the combat sports community.
A Lasting Legacy in Combat Sports
Even in death, Duke Roufus’ philosophy and teachings continue to shape the next generation of fighters. His students, gym, and the sport he loved will carry forward his legacy of discipline, respect, and relentless pursuit of excellence.
The Roufusport Academy announced that it will continue operations “driven by Duke’s enduring philosophy and commitment to excellence.”
FAQ
1. Who was Duke Roufus?
Duke Roufus was a renowned American kickboxer and MMA coach, founder of Roufusport MMA Academy in Milwaukee. He coached several UFC and Bellator champions, including Anthony Pettis, Tyron Woodley, Sergio Pettis, and Ben Askren.
2. How did Duke Roufus die?
According to his longtime friend and business partner Scott Joffe, Duke Roufus passed away peacefully in his sleep on Thursday, October 16, 2025.
3. How old was Duke Roufus at the time of his death?
Duke Roufus was 55 years old when he passed away.
4. What titles did Duke Roufus win in his kickboxing career?
Roufus was an eight-time world kickboxing champion, winning titles under major organizations like WKA, WAKO, WKBA, KICK, and IKF, with a professional record of 36 wins, 8 losses, and 1 draw, including 26 knockouts.
5. Who did Duke Roufus coach in MMA?
Roufus coached top-tier fighters such as Anthony and Sergio Pettis, Tyron Woodley, Ben Askren, Belal Muhammad, and Rose Namajunas, all of whom trained at his Roufusport MMA Academy.
6. What is Roufusport MMA Academy known for?
Founded in Milwaukee, Roufusport became one of the most respected MMA gyms in the U.S., known for producing world champions and promoting a culture of respect, family, and technical mastery.
7. What legacy does Duke Roufus leave behind?
Duke Roufus leaves behind a legacy of innovation, mentorship, and excellence in mixed martial arts. His influence continues through his students and the ongoing work of Roufusport MMA Academy.
8. Did Duke Roufus have any family members in combat sports?
Yes, his older brother Rick “The Jet” Roufus was also a world champion kickboxer, and the two were considered among the most accomplished siblings in martial arts history.