Duke Roufus Says CM Punk Is “200% Better” Than His First UFC Fight

Duke Roufus spoke with The Luke Thomas Show about CM Punk’s upcoming second UFC fight and how Punk has improved. Video from the interview is below, as well as some highlights per MMA Fighting:

On Punk’s improvement since his loss to Mickey Gall at UFC 203: “200 percent [better]. I’m not even his coach. We were friends first before we did this. I would not do this with anyone else except for my friendship with him from before he decided to fight. He’s just one hell of a guy. He’s a celebrity but he’s different than a lot of celebrities I know. Great guy. He works his ass off. He’s very well-liked on our team and he’s improved a lot.”

On Punk’s loss to Mickey Gall: “Let’s face it, Mickey Gall was a tough draw. He’s done quite well in the UFC so far. I think the UFC did the right thing. We don’t want to defame the sport or damage it by putting him in an un-legitimate fight. That being said, it’s very hard. They want him to come in and beat somebody, ya know?”

On the announcement of Punk’s next fight: “We’re in the process of finishing up the bout agreement and the UFC’s gonna make the announcement soon. It’s a good match on both sides. Can’t confirm what date it is. Obviously we’re hoping it’s Chicago, to join Sergio and a bunch of our other teammates on that card.”

On Punk’s training: “He’s worked his butt off. Very dedicated guy and I respect him a lot because he comes in and takes his lumps. I’m not saying getting beat up or anything erroneously, but he comes in, he’s tired and he’s exhausted There’s no celebrity about him. He grinds just like everyone else. That’s why he got to the top of the wrestling world and that’s why I respect him so much. I love anyone that has a great attitude and works hard. You help but love them, win lose or draw. This is the fight game and it all comes down to effort most of the time.”