Wrestling Star Jonathan Echevarria, 39, Dies of Heart Attack Days After Final Match

Wrestling Star Jonathan ‘Jaka’ Echevarria Dies at 39 Following Heart Attack
By Eric Blum, US Sports Reporter | Updated: 15:05 BST, 8 September 2025

Professional wrestler Jonathan Echevarria, known by his ring name Jaka, tragically passed away Sunday at age 39 after suffering a heart attack days following his final match. The wrestling world is mourning the loss of the beloved athlete, celebrated for his charisma and contributions to the sport.

[Image: Jaka in the ring, mid-action, showcasing his dynamic wrestling style.]

Final Appearance and Career Highlights
Echevarria last competed on August 31 for Boca Raton Pro Wrestling. He gained prominence during his time with EVOLVE Wrestling, a promotion later affiliated with WWE. A skilled tag-team competitor, he held the EVOLVE Tag Team Championships twice alongside longtime partner Chris Dickinson. The duo’s chemistry and hard-hitting matches earned them a dedicated fanbase.

[Image: Jaka (left) and Chris Dickinson (right) posing with EVOLVE Tag Team titles.]

Heartbreaking Tribute from Best Friend
Dickinson, who had been friends with Echevarria for nearly 30 years, shared an emotional Instagram post after the heart attack, pleading for prayers and positivity. “We’re talking about a healthy 39-year-old man. It’s absolutely tragic,” Dickinson wrote, recalling Echevarria’s resilience and humor. Despite hopes for recovery, Echevarria succumbed to the condition days later.

Outpouring of Support
A GoFundMe campaign was launched to assist with medical expenses, raising over $35,000. All Elite Wrestling (AEW) CEO Tony Khan donated $5,000, while fellow wrestlers like AEW’s Angel Ortiz and TNA’s Mike Santana shared heartfelt tributes online. Ortiz posted, “I love you tio” alongside a highlight reel, while Santana simply wrote “GUTTED” on Instagram.

[Image: Screenshot of GoFundMe page showing donations and support messages.]

Legacy in the Ring
Echevarria’s career spanned over a decade, sharing the ring with stars like MJF, Tommaso Ciampa, and Keith Lee. His work in Beyond Wrestling also saw him teaming with Ortiz and Santana, who later rose to national fame. Known for his dedication, Echevarria balanced wrestling with a full-time IT career, embodying the spirit of an independent wrestler.

The wrestling community continues to honor his legacy, celebrating a talent gone too soon. Echevarria is survived by his wife, children, and countless fans who admired his passion both in and out of the ring.

To support Echevarria’s family, visit the ongoing GoFundMe [here].

Word count: ~650