The wrestling community is mourning the loss of Jax Dane, the former NWA Worlds Heavyweight Champion who passed away at 48 on Christmas Day. Known for his strength, charisma, and dedication to the sport, Dane’s passing has prompted an outpouring of tributes from wrestling personalities across social media.
WWE producer Shane Helms shared his grief, writing, “There’s not much more I can add to this other than @TheJaxDane was my friend and I’m gonna miss him. I’ll be saving those silly ass text messages forever. RIP buddy.”
NWA owner Billy Corgan penned a heartfelt message in Dane’s honor, emphasizing the late wrestler’s impact both inside and outside the ring. “You see those men and women who carry the legacy of a champion because they have risen to such heights. And then there are those that earn the respect of a champion simply because of who they are. To this I can say, simply and personally, that Jax was such a man, and will forever be in our hearts,” Corgan wrote.
Jazz, a former WWE and NWA Women’s Champion, kept her tribute simple yet touching: “Will miss you, my friend! Till we meet again! Rest well.”
Matt Cardona, who once held the same prestigious NWA title as Dane, echoed the sentiment with, “Horrible news. RIP Jax Dane.”
Backstage, Dane was remembered as more than just a powerhouse performer. Manager Pollo Del Mar described him as “kind, fun, and very nice,” while also praising his behind-the-scenes leadership. “This is a really hard one. @TheJaxDane was such a kind, fun, very nice man. A hard worker, leader behind the scenes, and extremely friendly gentleman, I had the utmost respect and appreciation for him,” Del Mar wrote.
NWA broadcaster Kyle Davis posted photos of Dane, recalling a lighter moment when he borrowed Dane’s gear for promo pictures. “Jax Dane… legit one of my favorite human beings, even laughed when I stole his gear to take promo pics as him in it. A man with heart that matched his muscle. If there’s an afterlife, he’s going to be its champion,” Davis wrote.
Others, including veteran wrestler Konnan, reflected on Dane’s passion and positive energy. “Great guy, passionate,” Konnan wrote. “Got to work with him in Impact. Always wanted to learn more, always in a jovial mood… #RIP.”
Dane’s influence reached far beyond the ring, with tributes pouring in from stars like Luke Gallows, Jeremiah Plunkett, Royce Isaacs, and Max The Impaler. “Supportive and helpful, always greeted me with a smile and a hug,” Max wrote in their tribute.
The wrestling world’s collective heartbreak shows just how much Jax Dane meant to fans and colleagues alike. His legacy, kindness, and dedication to wrestling will never be forgotten.
What’s your favorite memory of Jax Dane? Share your thoughts and tributes below—let’s keep his legacy alive together.