The world of mixed martial arts is mourning one of its profound figures. Duke Roufus—born Jeffrey Ryan Roufus—passed away peacefully in his sleep on Thursday, October 17, 2025, at the age of 55, his longtime business partner Scott Joffe announced.

From his competitive days in the ring to his later role shaping champions, Roufus left a legacy that stretches through generations of fighters and the culture of MMA itself.

A Champion in the Ring

Roufus made his mark first as a kickboxer. Fighting out of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, he compiled a professional kickboxing record of 36 wins, 8 losses and 1 draw. Among his many accolades, he captured the I.K.F. World Super Heavyweight title in 1998, and held world-titles under several sanctioning bodies through the 1990s. After years of competing, he transitioned away from fighting in 2008.

His in-ring success was impressive, but it was what came next that secured his place in MMA history.

Building Roufusport and Coaching Champions

Following his fighting career, Roufus founded Roufusport MMA Academy in Milwaukee, a training facility that would become one of the most respected in the sport.

There, he served not just as trainer, but as mentor and architect of careers. Among the elite fighters he coached:

Anthony Pettis, former UFC Lightweight Champion: "When my dad was killed you took me in and became my father… Together we did the impossible and made it to the top!" he wrote.

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Sergio Pettis

Tyron Woodley, former UFC Welterweight Champion

Ben Askren

He also worked with other notable names including CM Punk during his MMA transition.

His influence reached beyond just technique—he cultivated a culture of respect, hard work and family at his gym. Scott Joffe described Roufus as "a mentor, innovator, father and friend whose influence transformed the landscape of mixed martial arts."

The Loss and Legacy

Roufus's passing has sent shockwaves through the MMA community. Tributes poured in from fighters, coaches and fans alike. Anthony Pettis's words captured the sorrow and gratitude of many: "You've taught me so much. I will make sure your legacy continues on."

Roufusport confirmed that the academy will continue operating, driven by the coach's enduring philosophy. "The culture he built — rooted in respect, hard work and family — will live on," the statement said.

His death leaves an irreplaceable void—not just in the corner of fighters, but in the heart of the sport itself. Roufus's legacy is not measured only by titles or finishes, but by the countless lives he shaped inside and outside the cage.

In Closing

As the fighters who once stood opposite him in the ring and those who learned from him bow their heads, one truth remains clear: Duke Roufus's impact will be felt for years to come. With every strike thrown by a Roufusport-trained athlete, with every gym built on his principles, his spirit endures.

To the gym owner, the coach, the champion—and most of all, the mentor—we say goodbye. Your fight is done. Rest in peace. 🙏