The professional wrestling community is mourning the loss of former NWA World Heavyweight Champion Jax Dane, who passed away on December 25, 2024, at the age of 48. The National Wrestling Alliance (NWA) announced his death, which resulted from complications of a heart attack suffered the previous month.
Born Jeremy Laymon on March 10, 1976, Dane’s death came as particularly tragic news, occurring on Christmas Day, leaving behind his wife, Evelynda Laymon, stepson Nicolas, and his father. The NWA expressed their sorrow, stating, "We are heartbroken to announce the passing of Jax Dane." His legacy, marked by both remarkable achievements inside the ring and personal kindness, has left a lasting imprint on fans and fellow wrestlers alike.
Dane's career reached new heights on August 15, 2015, when he claimed the NWA World Heavyweight Championship by defeating Hiroshi Tenzan. He held onto the title for 419 days, losing it to Tim Storm on October 21, 2016. Storm reflected on their long friendship and mutual respect, stating, "Very few people have been as influential to my wrestling career as Jax. We met about 15 years ago and have been friends ever since." This deep bond extended beyond the ring, as Storm highlighted Dane’s unwavering support for his loved ones, emphasizing his pride in his family.
William Patrick Corgan, the President and Owner of NWA, shared heartfelt sentiments about Dane's character. He described him as “a friend, mentor, absolute professional,” who worked tirelessly to support and rebuild the NWA. Corgan noted, "There are those men and women who carry the legacy of a champion because they have risen to such heights. And then there are those who earn the respect of champions simply because of who they are." Corgan assured fans and family alike, “Jax will be missed,” pledging to honor his legacy and make his family proud.
Dane’s achievements aren’t limited to just his time as the NWA World Heavyweight Champion. Over the course of his wrestling career, he also captured the NWA National Heavyweight Championship two times, the NWA World Tag Team Championship, and the NWA North American Heavyweight Championship. Notably, he was part of the War Kings tag team in Ohio Valley Wrestling (OVW), and he left significant marks wherever he competed, including stints with ROH, TNA/Impact Wrestling, and various other promotions.
His last match took place at NWA Samhain 2 in October 2024, just weeks before his eventual hospitalization. This encapsulated the high standards he set throughout his career, always ready to give his all to the sport he loved so dearly. Dane’s persona was described aptly by Pat Kenney, NWA Head of Talent Relations, who said, "He was my brother in every sense of the word, and I loved him. Jax was a grizzly bear in front of the camera and a teddy bear behind it." This juxtaposition highlighted the multifaceted nature of Dane's character, combining fierceness as a competitor with warmth as a family man.
Survivors like his wife Evelynda, stepson Nicolas, and family members will now navigate life without Dane, whose impact on their lives is irreplaceable. Storm shared his heartbreaking realizations following their last conversations. "He made me promise two things: Don’t share what’s happening with anyone; it’s a private thing. Promise me you will get your heart checked. He would ask you to do the same." This poignant request not only reflected Dane’s concern for his friends but also emphasized his deep bond with those he cared about.
The NWA community and wrestling fans around the world will continue to honor Jax Dane’s legacy. While his championship accolades adorn his record, it is the heartfelt stories and the empathy he shared with both colleagues and fans alike, as mentioned by multiple wrestlers who regarded him as family, which speak volumes about who he truly was.
The NWA plans to release details surrounding memorial services as they become available. Meanwhile, the wrestling world grapples with the void left by Jax Dane, celebrating both his storied career and his dedication to those he cherished. With such emotional tributes pouring in from around the wrestling sphere, it’s clear Jax Dane truly made his mark, one both recognized and respected by his peers.
We extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and fans during this difficult time.
