Duke Roufus, professional kickboxer, coach and mixed martial arts (MMA) promoter, has died at the age of 55.
Scott Joffe, one of the head coaches at Roufusport posted the news on Facebook Friday after Roufus died in his sleep on Thursday. The message expressed deep sadness and highlighted Roufus’ profound impact as a mentor, innovator and father figure in the martial arts community.
“Today the Roufusport family and the combat sports world were 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 thought possible. From world champions to college freshmen, 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.
“While we grieve deeply, the Roufusport MMA Academy will continue, 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 resonate in every strike, every lesson and every victory that bears the Roufusport name.”
Roufus began his professional kickboxing career in 1988 and competed primarily in the heavyweight division until his retirement in 2007, with a record of 36 wins (26 by knockout), 8 losses and 1 draw. He also had a brief professional boxing record of 2-0. His style mixed elements of kickboxing, Muay Thai, Taekwondo, Karate and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
After retiring from competition, Roufus transitioned into coaching and became one of the most respected striking coaches in MMA. He was co-founder and head coach of the Roufusport MMA Academy in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, along with business partner Scott Joffe and fighter Anthony Pettis. The gym emphasized a culture of respect, hard work and family, and produced numerous high-profile fighters.
Notable trainees included UFC lightweight champion Anthony Pettis, his brother Sergio Pettis, former UFC welterweight champion Tyron Woodley, former Bellator champion Ben Askren (a US Olympian), Pat Barry, Erik Koch, Ben Rothwell, Matt Mitrione, Jens Pulver, Alan Belcher, Stephan Bonnar and former WWE star CM Punk during his MMA transition. Roufus and Joffe also operated the North American Fighting Championship (NAFC) for MMA and kickboxing events, which helped launch many careers.
He also worked as a color commentator for K-1 on ESPN2, appeared on TSN in Canada and appeared on shows such as Walker, Texas Ranger and Fox’s Best Damn Sports Show Period. He founded Duke Roufus Striking University, an online training platform that offers hundreds of hours of content for fighters, students and coaches.
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