A big bond between fighter and coach
On the planet of fight sports activities {and professional} wrestling, few relationships resonate as deeply as that of a coach and his pupil. Such a connection was on show lately when CM Punk paid tribute to Duke Roufus — the legendary kickboxer-turned-MMA coach who handed away on October 17, 2025, on the age of 55.
Punk (born Phil Brooks) skilled underneath Roufus at what turned Roufusport in Milwaukee throughout his transition into combined martial arts.
Although Punk’s MMA run was comparatively temporary, the affect of Roufus left an enduring affect, each personally and professionally.
The tribute second
On the latest occasion WWE Saturday Evening’s Predominant Occasion in Salt Lake Metropolis, Punk made a really seen gesture: his entrance apparel featured a jacket with “Duke” embroidered on the chest, signifying his homage to Roufus.
He additionally publicly shared his grief and gratitude:
“Strolling up in Japan attempting to course of the information. It’ll take some time. You made me a greater particular person, coach.” — CM Punk
The tribute comes at a time when Punk is as soon as once more within the highlight, demonstrating how the teachings he realized underneath Roufus proceed to information him — each contained in the ring and out.
Roufus’ legacy and Punk’s journey
Duke Roufus wasn’t only a coach — he was a cornerstone of his gymnasium’s tradition, identified for taking in fighters and shaping careers throughout MMA and kickboxing.
Roufusport turned a hub for athletes in search of elite teaching, and Punk was amongst those that walked by way of its doorways.
For Punk, the transfer into MMA (after his established pro-wrestling profession) was daring and difficult. Coaching underneath Roufus meant going through steep studying curves, adapting to new disciplines, and embracing a fighter’s mindset. Though his MMA report wasn’t what some hoped, Punk’s dedication mirrored the values instilled by Roufus.
Why this tribute issues
Past the outcomes: The tribute isn’t about variety of wins or losses. It’s about transformation, gratitude, and respect. Punk’s phrases and gesture point out Roufus’ affect was far deeper than the battle outcomes.
A bridge between worlds: Punk is primarily referred to as a wrestling star. His acknowledgment of Roufus — a determine from the MMA world — highlights the interconnectedness of fight disciplines and the mutual respect amongst practitioners.
Legacy and mentorship: Roufus’ passing reminds us of the human facet of coaches — mentors, mates, and life-shapers. Punk’s tribute helps seize that dimension.
Reflection on the second
The picture of a wrestler-turned-fighter carrying a jacket bearing his coach’s title is symbolic. It says: “I haven’t forgotten the place I got here from.” Coaching underneath Roufus, Punk navigated unfamiliar territory. The tribute exhibits that regardless of his fame in wrestling, he values the groundwork laid by his coach.
Furthermore, it alerts to others within the trade — athletes, coaches, followers — that respect and recognition matter. In an period the place athletes typically transfer rapidly from venture to venture, Punk’s gesture stands as a reminder: the relationships solid behind the scenes outline greater than any televised match.
Ultimate ideas
In paying tribute to Duke Roufus, CM Punk didn’t simply honor a coach — he honored a journey. A journey that took him from the wrestling ring to the MMA cage, and now again to the wrestling stage, formed by somebody who believed in him, pushed him, and helped make him a “higher particular person.” As Roufus’ legacy carries on by way of his gymnasium and his fighters, Punk’s gesture will stay a significant chapter in that story.
