Milwaukee — The martial arts world is mourning the loss of one of its most influential figures. Duke Roufus, a pioneering kickboxer, coach, and founder of the renowned Roufusport MMA Academy, has died at the age of 55.
A Milwaukee native, Roufus was more than a fighter — he was a mentor, innovator, and cornerstone of the city’s sports community. Known for his sharp technical mind and genuine passion for teaching, Roufus guided some of the UFC’s biggest names, including Anthony “Showtime” Pettis, Tyron Woodley, and Belal Muhammad. Under his leadership, Roufusport became a breeding ground for champions and a beacon of excellence in combat sports.
News of his passing sent shockwaves across the MMA community. Fighters, coaches, and fans from around the world took to social media to honor his legacy — not just as a trainer, but as a man who deeply cared for his students both inside and outside the cage.
“Duke changed my life,” said former UFC lightweight champion Anthony Pettis in a heartfelt post. “He believed in me before I believed in myself. His legacy will live on in every fighter who walks through the doors of Roufusport.”
Before his coaching fame, Roufus made his mark as a world champion kickboxer, earning titles across multiple organizations. His transition from fighter to coach was seamless, driven by his commitment to evolving the sport and nurturing the next generation.
As tributes continue to pour in, plans for a public memorial are being discussed by Roufusport and the Roufus family.
For many, Duke Roufus was more than a coach — he was a visionary who put Milwaukee on the global MMA map, and a friend whose influence reached far beyond the gym’s walls.
His legacy endures in every fighter he trained, every match he cornered, and every lesson he passed on with humility and heart.