CM Punk honors the legendary kickboxer-turned-MMA coach with a heartfelt tribute.
The MMA community was devastated to learn of the passing of Jeffrey “Duke” Roufus, the champion kickboxer and MMA coach who founded Milwaukee’s renowned Roufusport Academy, at the age of 55.
The same sentiment was shared in the pro wrestling community by stars who have trained with Roufus. CM Punk, who has trained with Roufus, also paid his tribute to the MMA icon. Punk, along with several WWE stars, is currently enjoying his time in Japan for the WWE Supershow, which took place in Tokyo on October 17 and 18.
CM Punk trained with Roufus during his UFC days
The Second City Saint on his IG handle shared that he woke up in Japan to the heartbreaking news of his former coach, Duke Roufus, passing away. Punk trained under Roufus during the 2010s, often traveling from Chicago to Milwaukee to work with him throughout his UFC days.
“Walking up in Japan trying to process the news. It’ll take a while. You made me a better person, coach.” Punk wrote.
In addition to the outpouring of reactions and condolences from the MMA world, WWE stars have also shared their dismay at the news, including Punk’s wife, AJ Lee, as well as Dexter Lumis, Adam Pearce, Sheamus, and Aleister Black.
Paul Felder pays tribute to Roufus during UFC Vancouver
Duke’s business partner Scott Joffe broke the news, revealing he passed away peacefully in his sleep. Following the news, MMA icons like Anthony Pettis, Paul Felder, and Sergio Pettis paid tribute to their former Coach.
Paying tribute to his former coach, Paul Felder, a former UFC Lightweight and current UFC commentator, recalled his time training with Roufus in the gym. He shared how Roufus had been a father figure to him and his teammates, breaking down in tears as he remembered their moments together.
Roufus was credited with building a world-class gym in Milwaukee, a city not typically known for its fighting scene. His gym became a training ground for notable fighters, including the Pettis brothers, Paul Felder, CM Punk, Aleister Black, Pat Barry, Erik Koch, Ben Rothwell, Matt Mitrione, Ben Askren, Tyron Woodley, Stephan Bonnar, Jens Pulver, and many others.
Who was Duke Roufus?
Roufus was a renowned MMA coach and former kickboxer, best known for his work in the world of mixed martial arts. He founded the Roufusport gym in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, which became a leading training facility for top-tier fighters in both MMA and kickboxing.
What happened to Duke Roufus?
Duke’s business partner Scott Joffe broke the news, revealing he passed away peacefully in his sleep.