Who was Duke Roufus? All about MMA coach and ex-kickboxer as he dies at 55

MMA coach, founder of Roufusport, and ex-kickboxer Duke Roufus reportedly passed away "peacefully in his sleep." Friend and business partner, Scott Joffee, broke the news on his Facebook page on October 17. He paid tribute to Duke and appreciated the various roles he championed in his lifetime, including being a "mentor, innovator, father and friend."

In an emotional tribute, Scott added,

"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."

Scott elaborated that they will continue to cherish Duke's work in the field and noted that "Roufusport MMA Academy" would continue forward. He bid his friend of 29 years a solemn goodbye and wrote,

"His impact will echo in every strike, every lesson, and every victory that bears the Roufusport name."

Tributes pour in for MMA coach Duke Roufus who passed away at 55

Duke Roufus reportedly passed away peacefully in his home on Thursday, while the exact cause hasn't been revealed. From winning multiple championships in kickboxing to starting his own academy, Duke Roufus came a long way in his journey.

Apart from his friends and family, his trainees, including Anthony Pettis and Tyron Woodley, grieved the loss. Describing Duke as a father figure, professional boxer Anthony Pettis wrote on his X channel,

"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."

Tyron (@therealest) took to his Instagram story and expressed that he was "shattered" after hearing about Duke's passing. He shared another story and wrote,

"We will carry on your legacy."

Another professional athlete, CM Punk (@cmpunk), took to Instagram and paid tribute to his coach. He wrote,

"Walking up in Japan, trying to process the news. It’ll take a while. You made me a better person, coach."

Duke's mentorship touched many, including Felder Paul (@felderpaul). He took to his Instagram to describe his experiences with the former and wrote,

"Duke took me in when I was in a terrible spot in my fighting career. He took me into his gym, made me a little dorm and welcomed me on the team. The first day I spent on the mats with him I called home and said im staying the whole camp. That year he got me on a 3 fight winning streak and 2 bonuses."

He added,

"I lived in the gym and got to spend hours a day talking to Duke. Not just as coach and fighter but as two friends and fathers."

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The MMA community is bidding farewell to their beloved coach, Duke Roufus. They grieve his loss but promise to continue his legacy and spirit.

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