The Milwaukee mixed martial arts community is mourning the passing of Jeffrey Duke Roufus, a former kickboxer and respected MMA coach, who died in his sleep on Thursday last week at the age of 55. Roufus was the founder of the Roufusport MMA Academy.
Scott Joffe, Roufusport co-owner and longtime business partner, described Roufus as a positive influence in a statement to FOX 6 Now, noting his dedication to helping others improve both personally and professionally.
Anthony Pettis, former UFC lightweight champion and one of Roufus’ most recognized students, told the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel that Roufus was like a second father to him and played a key role in his and his brother Sergio’s careers.
Trainer Isaiah Benjamin shared with WISN that Roufus was known for his tough but caring approach, always pushing his students to succeed.
Roufus began practicing martial arts at age four and went on to build one of the nation’s leading MMA academies. Beyond his athletic achievements, he was known for his commitment to teaching and his devotion to his 13-year-old daughter, as noted by the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.
