Duke Roufus, a famed trainer, coach and kickboxer, has died at the age of 55 years old.
Scott Joffe, one of the head coaches at Roufusport posted the news on Facebook on Friday after Roufus passed away in his sleep on Thursday.
“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.”
Roufus first came to fame through his kickboxing career — a path he followed alongside his older brother Rick Roufus — and collected numerous titles along the way.
His competitive career saw him fight until 2008 when he transitioned full-time into coaching at his Roufusport facility based out of Wisconsin.
There, Roufus became one of the most successful and well-respected coaches in the sport working with numerous champions, including Anthony Pettis and his younger brother Sergio Pettis.
Roufus also worked with fighters such as Ben Rothwell, Ben Askren, Tyron Woodley and helped CM Punk when he made his move from professional wrestling to MMA. He also promoted fights and worked as a color commentator during his legendary career in the sport.
