RIP To Legendary MMA Coach Duke Roufus

I'm shocked and saddened to share the news that Duke Roufus, legendary MMA coach of Roufusport MMA Academy (and ex-champion kickboxer) passed away in his sleep this week. I'm not sure what the cause of death is just yet, but he was only 55 - such a shame. This news was first shared by Scott Joffe, friend and business partner of Roufus....

"Today, the Roufusport family and martial arts world was stunned by the heartbreaking news that Duke Roufus, world-renowned top MMA coach, founder, and namesake of Roufusport MMA Academy, passed away peacefully in his sleep. Duke was more than a celebrated trainer and champion kickboxer—he was a mentor, innovator, father and friend whose influence transformed the landscape of mixed martial arts. 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.

Though we grieve deeply, Roufusport MMA Academy will continue forward, driven by Duke’s enduring philosophy and commitment to excellence. The culture he built—rooted in respect, hard work, and family—will live on through the fighters, coaches, and students who proudly carry his torch. His impact will echo in every strike, every lesson, and every victory that bears the Roufusport name.

Champions. Today. Tomorrow. Forever.

My fantastic business partner for 29 years…"

Roufus famously coached Tyron Woodley, Anthony and Sergio Pettis, Ben Askren, Belal Muhammad, Paul Felder, Maycee Barber, and even CM Punk - among the hundreds paying him tribute today....

Ev and I got to spend a little bit of time with Duke before an Anthony Pettis fight back in 2022, and he was incredibly kind to us and eager to share his wealth of knowledge with us. You could tell he truly loved fighting on a crazy level - he lived/breathed/ate/slept fighting. Some of that footage made it into the video below….

There's really only a handful of coaches to ever make an impact on mixed martial arts like Duke Roufus did; his legacy cannot be understated. Rest in peace to a legend.