Former kickboxer and MMA coach Jeffrey “Duke” Roufus, who trained some legendary fighters, died Friday at the age of 55, according to business partner Scott Joffe.
Roufus died peacefully in his sleep, per Joffe.
“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,” Joffe, who partnered with Roufus for 29 years, wrote Friday on Facebook. “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 sports and in the hearts of all who knew him.”
Roufus first emerged as a kickboxer in the 1990s, going 36-8-1 and winning eight titles, the last coming in 1998 when he became I.K.F. world super heavyweight champion.
His triumphed in his final bout in 2008.
After the successful run, Roufus transitioned to coaching, opening the Roufusport MMA Academy.
His long list of successful clients includes former champions such as Anthony Pettis and Ben Askren, along with brief MMA fighter and WWE superstar CM Punk.
“When my dad was killed you took me in and became my father…. Together we did the impossible and made it to the top!” Pettis posted to Instagram on Friday. “I will always make you proud, you’ve taught me so much. I will make sure your legacy continues on.”
Joffe said in his Facebook post that the Roufusport MMA Academy will continue to operate, “driven by Duke’s enduring philosophy and commitment to excellence.”
“The measure of a man is not in what he says or does in life, but in what others say of him after he’s gone. Rest in Paradise my friend,” Joffe captioned an Instagram collage posted Saturday. “We accomplished many many great things together and helped countless people change their life for the better. As I always told you, thank you for blessing me with the opportunity to be part of your life and accomplishments. We soldier on together with one goal in mind, to continue to bring victory and honor to the Roufus name.”
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