UFC Fight Night 262, or more precisely UFC Fight Night: de Ridder vs. Allen, is underway. The first bout of the main card, between Manon Fiorot and Jasmine Jasudavicious, just reached its conclusion. However, before the event could enter its final stretch, a poignant moment touched everyone: a deeply moving and heartfelt tribute from color commentator Paul Felder, who joined Daniel Cormier at the commentary booth for the night, to legendary trainer Duke Roufus.

Considering Roufus’ immense contributions and their lifelong bond, especially the way he supported Felder during a difficult phase in his career, Felder could barely hold back his tears. Over a lifetime dedicated to mixed martial arts, Milwaukee-born Jeffrey Ryan ‘Duke’ Roufus became world-renowned as a striking coach following a successful career as a professional kickboxer. It didn’t take long for Paul Felder‘s tribute to capture everyone’s attention.

More than a coach: Felder’s emotional farewell to Duke Roufus

After suffering a loss in 2016, Paul Felder moved to Roufusport Gym in Milwaukee, founded by Duke Roufus. Speaking about the much-beloved trainer, Paul Felder said, “Duke just… he took guys in and became a father figure to so many of us. He was more than just a coach to me. He was more than just a coach to everybody that ever worked with him. I got to travel the world with that man, and yeah, he’s gone way too soon, and we love you, Duke.”

Widely respected for his craft, Duke Roufus became a catalyst in shaping the careers of several MMA icons, including Paul Felder. Among his most notable pupils were former champions Anthony Pettis and Tyron Woodley. For Pettis, a fellow Milwaukeean, Roufus was more than a coach. He was a father figure.

“When my dad was killed, you took me in and became my father…. 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. #RIP Coach 🙏,” he wrote on his tribute message.

Let’s take a look at what some well-known names had to say after hearing Paul Felder’s touching words.

MMA world comes together to honor Duke Roufus

Former Cage Warriors welterweight champion and UFC title challenger Dan Hardy was among the first to be moved by Felder’s tribute. “Shout out to Paul Felder for doing a solid job as always in the booth, after the loss of Duke Roufus 🙏🏼,” he said. Undoubtedly, Duke Roufus’ influence extended to numerous fighters and to the MMA community as a whole.

Well-known MMA insider and analyst Luke Thomas also took note. He tweeted, “Heartfelt tribute to Duke Roufus from Paul Felder on this UFC broadcast.” No one could have missed it. It was a sincere homage to a mentor who, beyond training, made sure he touched the lives of his fighters outside the cage as well.

MMA content creator Owen wrote, “Nice to see a few words for Duke Roufus on the broadcast. Poor Paul Felder, that was tough to watch.” Clearly, like Anthony Pettis, Paul Felder also shared a deeply personal bond with Duke Roufus.

Renowned writer Damon Martin acknowledged the UFC Vancouver organizers for their timely gesture: “#UFCVancouver broadcast opens with a tribute to Duke Roufus.” The sentiment was echoed elsewhere, too. “Dedication to Duke Roufus at the start of the #UFCVancouver main card,” noted reporter Nolan King.

Duke Roufus was 55 when he passed away in his sleep. His longtime friend and business partner Scott Joffe shared the news on Facebook.

A professional kickboxer with a 36–8 record, Roufus earned multiple championships during his career. Later, he decided to share his vast knowledge with younger fighters. His Roufusport Martial Arts Academy in Milwaukee became a hub for athletes looking to hone their skills. But more importantly, it became a place where they learned about life. Duke Roufus will be deeply missed by all. What do you think of the life, legacy, and influence of Duke Roufus in the sport of MMA? Let us know in the comments.