Jaka’s real name was Jonathan Echevarria, and he made his professional wrestling debut in 2007. Over nearly two decades, he became a respected figure on the independent wrestling scene, competing for numerous prominent indie promotions including Beyond Wrestling, EVOLVE, Chikara, Game Changer Wrestling (GCW), Combat Zone Wrestling (CZW), AIW, JAPW, and PROGRESS Wrestling[1][3][5]. He was especially well-known for his work in Beyond Wrestling, where he was part of the fan-favorite faction Team Pazuzu alongside Mike Santana and Ortiz. His chemistry with this group and presence in Beyond made him a beloved character among indie fans[3][5].

During his career, Jaka earned significant accolades, most notably winning the EVOLVE Tag Team Championship twice with partner Chris Dickinson. One of his career highlights came in 2018 when he defended the EVOLVE Tag titles at WWE WrestleMania Axxess, exposing him to a wider wrestling audience. He also made appearances in AEW, competing on AEW Dark: Elevation in 2021, further showcasing his talents beyond the indie circuit[2][4].

Tragically, Jaka suffered a heart attack earlier in September 2025, which led to his hospitalization in the ICU in critical condition. His family revealed the severity of the situation in a GoFundMe campaign launched to help cover mounting medical expenses. His sister, Annette Rivera, described Jonathan as “the kind of person who brings laughter and energy wherever he goes—a fun, lovable pain in the butt who means the world to us,” highlighting the deep personal loss felt by his loved ones[1][2][3]. The GoFundMe campaign was supported and promoted by many figures within the wrestling community, reflecting the close-knit nature of the sport[5].

The wrestling world has expressed shock and grief at the sudden loss of Jaka. Gabe Sapolsky, former booker for EVOLVE during Jaka’s tenure there, called the news “a true tragedy” and praised Jaka’s character, saying, “No one will say a bad word about the man. My deepest condolences to his family and friends. Thank you for everything, Jaka”[1]. Promotions such as C*4 Wrestling also issued heartfelt tributes, remembering Jaka as kind, hardworking, and thoughtful—highlighting how well-respected he was backstage as well as in the ring[1].

Fellow wrestlers and fans took to social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter) to share their condolences and memories. Mike Santana, a longtime tag partner and ally from Team Pazuzu, was among those publicly mourning the loss of his friend and colleague[2]. The outpouring of support and grief has reminded many how Jaka’s impact extended beyond his in-ring accomplishments to the relationships he built throughout the wrestling industry.

While Jaka never reached superstardom on the level of WWE or AEW main rosters, his strong presence on the independent wrestling scene left an indelible mark on the community. His death at only 39 years old is a stark reminder of the pressures and health risks that professional wrestlers often face.

According to a WWE insider familiar with wrestlers transitioning from indie to major promotions, “Jaka was the kind of veteran that young talent looked-up to. He worked hard, kept it real, and never burned bridges. His passing is not only a loss of a talented performer but of a mentor within the wrestling community.”

As fans and colleagues continue to process this heartbreaking news, both Beyond Wrestling and other promotions are expected to hold tributes in his honor. Sources close to Jaka’s family revealed that they are grateful for the overwhelming support and requests privacy during this difficult time.

Jaka’s legacy will long be remembered as “The Original Ace,” a wrestler with passion, skill, and a generous spirit who helped shape the independent wrestling landscape for nearly two decades.

In these moments of sadness, the wrestling community rallies together, keeping Jonathan Echevarria’s memory alive as they honor his contributions inside and outside the ring.

For continued updates on tribute shows and memorial events in honor of Jaka, stay tuned to WWE.com, Fightful, and affiliated wrestling news outlets.