Anthony Pettis recently paid tribute to his longtime coach, Duke Roufus, who passed away. The former UFC lightweight champion shared a close bond with his coach, viewing him as a father figure.
Roufus, a former kickboxing champion, became one of the most respected coaches in MMA. He founded Roufusport, a gym based in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Under his leadership, the gym produced many elite fighters and champions. His champions included Pettis, Belal Muhammad, Tyron Woodley, and Ben Askren.
The official Roufusport Instagram account announced Roufus passed away peacefully in his sleep. He was 55.
Pettis honored Roufus with a photo and an heartfelt message on social media.
“Lost my 2nd father! I love you @coachdukeroufus”
The former UFC lightweight champion also shared a longer tribute, reflecting on the impact Roufus had on his life. Pettis expressed gratitude for everything his coach had done over the years.
“When my dad was killed, you took me in and became my father,” Pettis wrote on Instagram. “Together we did the impossible and made it to the top! I will always make you proud, you’ve taught me so much. I will make sure your legacy continues on.”
Anthony Pettis’ Brother Shares Emotional Tribute to Duke Roufus
Anthony Pettis‘ younger brother, Sergio, also posted an emotional message. He and Duke Roufus had recently celebrated a major victory at PFL Champions Series 3 in Dubai.
Roufus cornered Sergio in his latest fight against Magomed Magomedov. He secured a highlight-reel knockout with a spinning elbow in the second round.
In a heartfelt tribute, Sergio thanked Roufus for his belief in him and long-standing support of his family.
“Can’t believe I’m making this post. Just two weeks ago, we travelled to Dubai and had one of our best performances together. You have been my coach since I was 13-years-old and have been in my corner for every single fight since I was 14-years-old,” Pettis wrote on Instagram.
He added:
“You’ve taught me so much in life and in the fight game. This one hurts for sure. I love you @coachdukeroufus. Thanks for helping me believe in myself and thanks for everything you have done for the Pettis family. You will never be forgotten.”
Teammates Join Pettis in Paying Tribute to Coach Roufus
Roufus’ passing shocked the MMA community. Many of Pettis’ teammates joined in to honor their coach. Roufus had a personal connection with all his fighters.
Ben Askren, a former Bellator champion, remembered his early days at Roufusport. He recalled how Roufus welcomed him when he began his MMA career.
“Made me think back to when I moved to Milwaukee to be a full-time MMA fighter in 2011. @coachdukeroufus welcomed me with open arms. I would watch him do for so many others over the preceding years, he was really special in that respect.”
WWE superstar CM Punk also paid tribute to his former coach, who helped him prepare for his UFC debut.
“You made me a better person, coach.”
Former UFC champion Tyron Woodley also reflected on Roufus’ impact. He credited him for reigniting his passion and sharpening his mindset.
“You showed me the recipe to being a champion, made fighting fun for me again. Sacrificed to make sure my brothers and I realized our goals. You said, ‘I’m not your striking coach, I’m your winning coach!’ That was in battle and in life.”
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