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Duke Roufus, Influential MMA Coach and Former Kickboxing Champion, Dies at 55

Roufusport says it will carry forward his teaching and culture.

Overview

  • Scott Joffe, his Roufusport business partner, announced the death Friday in a Facebook post.
  • Joffe said Roufus passed away peacefully in his sleep Thursday evening, and no cause has been disclosed.
  • The Milwaukee academy he founded produced multiple MMA champions, including Anthony and Sergio Pettis, Tyron Woodley and Ben Askren.
  • Roufus previously built a standout kickboxing career with a 36-8 record and titles under organizations such as WKA, WAKO and IKF.
  • Tributes poured in from across the sport, with Anthony Pettis calling him a father figure and pledging to carry on his legacy.