THE wrestling world is mourning the loss of Jonathan Echevarria, who has tragically died aged 39.
Echevarria, who was best known for his time in EVOLVE when the promotion was attached to the WWE, made his final in-ring appearance on August 31.
Wrestling star Jonathan Ecehvarria has tragically passed away aged 39
But just over a week after competing at Boca Raton Pro Wrestling in Florida, he suffered a fatal heart attack.
Tributes have poured in for the late Echevarria, who was better known by his ring name ‘Jaka, ‘ from around the world.
AEW star Angel Ortiz paid tribute on Instagram with a highlight video and the accompanying caption: “I love you, tio.”
TNA standout Mike Santana wrote on his Instagram story: “Gutted.”
One wrestling fan wrote on X: “RIP Jonathan Echevarria aka Johnny Mangue / Jaka, one of the funniest people you could ever have the pleasure of being around. Rest easy.”
Another said: “Rest in Peace, Jonathan Echevarria.”
Echevarria’s long-time Evolve tag-team partner, Chris Dickison, has yet to comment on his passing.
But he posted a touching tribute to his long-time pal on Instagram in the immediate aftermath of his heart attack.
Chris Dickinson paid tribute to the late Jonathan Echevarria days before his passing
He wrote: “It has been the most difficult time the last few days processing this.
“For anyone that I haven’t messaged or called back. I’m sorry. I’ve just been trying to deal with it.
“Unfortunately, Jonathan, my best friend for the better part of the last 30 years has suffered a heart attack.
“We are talking about a healthy 39-year-old man. It’s absolutely tragic and he’s still in critical condition.
“If you don’t know him just know he is beloved.
“Whether you knew him or not, maybe you have a memory of him in the ring, any interaction where he made you smile.
One of the funniest people you could ever have the pleasure of being around. Rest easy.
A wrestling fan on Jonathan Echevarria
“Just think of him and send all your positivity, prayers, and loving energy into the universe for him.
“I know my guy and I know he’s going to kick out of this and we will have a good laugh about it.”
A GoFundMe was set up to help Echevarria’s loved ones with medical expenses.
Among the most notable donors was AEW CEO and President Tony Khan.
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