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BORN
1970
DIED
2025
Duke Roufus Obituary
Born on February 19, 1970, in Milwaukee, Roufus was raised in a martial-arts family alongside his older brother, kickboxing world champion Rick?Roufus. From an early age, he immersed himself in discipline and striking arts with his father's guidance; he later rose to prominence in the 1990s as a professional super heavyweight kickboxer.
During his active fighting career, he compiled a record of 36 wins, eight losses, and one draw, with 26 knockouts. He captured multiple championships in organizations such as WKA, WAKO, and others. After retiring from competition, he turned his full attention to coaching and the creation of a training environment that would leave a lasting imprint on the sport.
In Milwaukee, Roufus co-founded the gym known as Roufusport MMA Academy alongside business partner Scott?Joffe and fighter-owner Anthony?Pettis. That facility became one of North America's premier MMA training centers, particularly respected for its striking curriculum and world-class athletes.
Under Roufus's leadership, the gym produced multiple elite fighters and world champions. Notable students included Anthony Pettis, his brother Sergio?Pettis, former UFC welterweight champion Tyron?Woodley, former Bellator/world champion Ben?Askren, former UFC women's strawweight champion Rose?Namajunas and others. Beyond wins and titles, he was widely praised as a mentor, innovator, father figure and friend whose belief in his fighters extended beyond the cage.
Roufus is survived by his immediate family, including his brother Rick, and by the extended "Roufusport family" of coaches, athletes and students whose lives he touched. His impact extended far beyond his own titles. He helped elevate the art and craft of modern MMA striking, and he turned a local gym in Milwaukee into a global destination for fighters. His philosophy, grounded in respect, hard work and family, will continue to echo in his sport.
By Legacy News Staff
(Image: Duke Roufus via Facebook)
1 Entry
Jason Orem
5 hours ago
Big fan of the passion you had for your fighters. Rest easy.
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