Duke Roufus, born Jeffrey Ryan Roufus on February 19th, 1970, left the world far too soon, passing away peacefully in his sleep on October 17th, 2025. His death was announced by his longtime business partner, Scott Joffe, sending waves of grief across the martial arts community. Duke was more than a fighter and coach; he was a mentor, a trailblazer, and a father, whose influence stretched from the ring to the hearts of all who knew him. Today, we reflect on his remarkable journey, his triumphs and challenges, his family, and the indelible mark he left on the world of kickboxing and MMA.
Early Life and Family
Jeffrey Ryan "Duke" Roufus was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, the younger brother of renowned kickboxer Rick "The Jet" Roufus. From a young age, Duke showed a fierce dedication to martial arts, inspired by his brother’s accomplishments and the discipline instilled by his family. Training rigorously from childhood, Duke developed the skills and work ethic that would propel him to the heights of kickboxing. His upbringing in Milwaukee grounded him, and he carried those Midwestern values of determination, respect, and resilience throughout his life.
Kickboxing Career
Duke’s professional career was defined by tenacity, precision, and an unyielding competitive spirit. Throughout the 1990s, he amassed an impressive list of championships: W.K.A. North American Super Heavyweight Champion, W.A.K.O. World Super Heavyweight Champion, W.K.B.A. World Super Heavyweight Champion, K.I.C.K. World Super Heavyweight Champion, and the I.K.F. Pro Muay Thai Rules Super Heavyweight World Title. On December 4th, 1998, he captured the I.K.F. World Super Heavyweight Title in Milwaukee with a unanimous decision over New Zealand’s Hiriwa TeRangi.
In his first defense on March 19th, 1999, Duke showcased his ruthless striking skill, defeating Australia’s Grant Barker in just 39 seconds with a combination of leg kicks, knees, and a high head kick. Even after vacating his Super Heavyweight title to compete in the Heavyweight Muay Thai Division, Duke remained a dominant force in the ring. He officially retired on December 11th, 2002, with a professional kickboxing record of 36 wins, 8 losses, and 1 draw, and a pro boxing record of 2–0.
Duke came out of retirement on two further occasions, securing victories against Sinisa "Thunderman" Andrijasevic in 2005 and Eduardo Maiorino in 2007, demonstrating his enduring skill and passion for competition.
Coaching Career and Legacy
Beyond his fighting career, Duke Roufus became one of North America’s most respected striking coaches. He founded Roufusport Martial Arts Academy in Milwaukee with his business partner Scott Joffe and worked closely with MMA champions and notable fighters, including Anthony Pettis, Pat Barry, Erik Koch, Ben Rothwell, Matt Mitrione, Ben Askren, Tyron Woodley, Jens Pulver, Stephan Bonnar, and even CM Punk.
Under Duke’s guidance, Roufusport became a breeding ground for champions, recognized not only for technical excellence but for instilling discipline, confidence, and respect in fighters. Duke’s approach to coaching emphasized precision, creativity, and heart, traits he embodied in every punch, kick, and lesson. His influence extended to North American Fighting Championship (NAFC) MMA & Kickboxing, which he co-operated, launching the careers of countless athletes who went on to achieve global recognition.
In addition to coaching, Duke shared his knowledge as a color commentator for K-1 on ESPN2 and appeared on TSN in Canada, as well as television shows like Walker Texas Ranger and Fox’s Best Damn Sport’s Show Period. Through these roles, he brought martial arts to a wider audience, inspiring fans and athletes alike.
Personal Life
Outside the ring, Duke Roufus was a devoted husband and father. He shared his life with his beloved wife, Jennifer Roufus, and together they raised two daughters. Family was the cornerstone of Duke’s life, and he often spoke proudly of his daughters’ accomplishments and joys. Despite a career that demanded immense time and energy, Duke always made space for his loved ones, passing on lessons of resilience, discipline, and integrity. His home was a place of laughter, encouragement, and unconditional support, reflecting the same values he instilled in his fighters.
Death
The martial arts world was stunned on October 17th, 2025, when news broke that Duke Roufus had passed away peacefully in his sleep. His passing was announced by Scott Joffe via social media, and the outpouring of grief was immediate. Colleagues, students, fans, and fighters who had been touched by his guidance shared tributes, remembering him as a man of immense skill, generosity, and heart. Though his physical presence is gone, Duke’s lessons, inspiration, and love continue to resonate in the countless athletes he trained and the many lives he touched.
Honors and Titles
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1998 I.K.F. World Super Heavyweight Champion
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1997 K.I.C.K. World Super Heavyweight Champion
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1996 W.K.B.A. World Super Heavyweight Champion
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1995 W.A.K.O. World Super Heavyweight Champion
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1995 I.S.K.A. World Super Heavyweight Champion
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1995 W.K.A. World Super Heavyweight Champion
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1993 W.K.A. North American Super Heavyweight Champion
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1991 W.A.K.O. World Championships in London, UK – Bronze +84 kg (Light-Contact)
Legacy
Duke Roufus’s legacy is profound and enduring. As a fighter, he was fearless and disciplined; as a coach, he was nurturing and inspiring. His influence shaped generations of martial artists who carry forward his techniques, values, and ethos. Roufusport remains a testament to his vision, a place where fighters continue to grow and thrive under the principles he championed.
He leaves behind not just a family who loved him deeply, but an entire community of athletes, fans, and friends who mourn his loss yet celebrate his life. Duke Roufus’s story reminds us that greatness is not only measured by titles or victories, but by the lives we touch, the knowledge we pass on, and the love we give.
Though the world has lost a legend, Duke Roufus’s spirit lives on in every fighter who steps into the ring with courage, discipline, and heart. Rest in power, Duke Roufus. Your punches may have ceased, but your legacy will strike forever.
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