The world of mixed martial arts is paying tribute to Duke Roufus, the acclaimed trainer and former world-class kickboxer who died in his sleep on Thursday at the age of 55. His longtime colleague and friend Scott Joffe confirmed the news in a heartfelt Facebook statement on Friday.
“Today, the Roufusport family and martial arts world was stunned by the heartbreaking news that Duke Roufus, world-renowned top MMA coach, founder, and namesake of Roufusport MMA Academy, passed away peacefully in his sleep,” Joffe wrote on Facebook.
“Duke was more than a celebrated trainer and champion kickboxer—he was a mentor, innovator, father and friend whose influence transformed the landscape of mixed martial arts. His knowledge, charisma, and passion inspired countless fighters to reach heights they never imagined possible. From world champions to first-day students, everyone who crossed his path felt his genuine care and unwavering belief in their potential. His loss leaves an irreplaceable void in the sport and in the hearts of all who knew him.
Though we grieve deeply, Roufusport MMA Academy will continue forward, driven by Duke’s enduring philosophy and commitment to excellence. The culture he built—rooted in respect, hard work, and family—will live on through the fighters, coaches, and students who proudly carry his torch. His impact will echo in every strike, every lesson, and every victory that bears the Roufusport name.”
From Fighter to Founding Father of Roufusport
A Milwaukee native, Roufus grew up in a fighting family alongside his brother Rick Roufus, both destined for success in kickboxing. Over a career that spanned more than a decade, Duke Roufus amassed an official record of 36 wins, 8 losses, and 1 draw, earning multiple world titles and international acclaim before retiring from active competition in 2008.
After hanging up his gloves, he dedicated himself to building a home for fighters — the now world-renowned Roufusport MMA Academy in Wisconsin — where he trained and mentored some of the biggest names in the sport.
A Champion-Making Gym
Roufusport became synonymous with championship success. Among his most accomplished students were Anthony Pettis, who captured the UFC lightweight title; Sergio Pettis, who claimed gold in Bellator; and Tyron Woodley, who became a UFC welterweight champion. He also worked with Ben Askren, Belal Muhammad, Ben Rothwell, and even helped CM Punk make the leap from professional wrestling to MMA.
Roufus’ influence also reached Rose Namajunas, who trained at his gym early in her career before rising to become a two-time UFC strawweight champion.
Outside of training, Roufus was a commentator, fight promoter, and educator whose voice and analysis helped grow kickboxing’s visibility on television. Known for his calm, analytical insight and his warmth toward fighters, he continued to promote events and guide young athletes long after his own fighting days were done.
His dedication to the craft earned him respect across all corners of combat sports — from striking specialists to wrestling coaches and newcomers just stepping into the gym.
Duke Roufus’ approach to martial arts combined technical mastery with human compassion. He believed that character was as important as competition, and his gym’s emphasis on family and loyalty reflected that belief.
Now, as the MMA world reflects on his passing, his students and peers vow to keep his spirit alive every day — in the gyms he built, the fighters he shaped, and the community he inspired.
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 always make you proud, you’ve taught me so much. I will make sure your legacy continues on. #RIP Coach 🙏 pic.twitter.com/wRwkcoDT8A
— Anthony Pettis (@Showtimepettis) October 18, 2025
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