Jax Dane, Former NWA World Champion, Dies at 48: What You Need to Know

One Big Thing

Jeremy Laymon, known to wrestling fans as Jax Dane, died Wednesday at age 48 following complications from a November heart attack. The former NWA Worlds Heavyweight Champion was active in the ring as recently as October 2024.

Why It Matters

Dane was one of the most significant champions in modern NWA history, holding the World Heavyweight Championship for 419 days – among the longest reigns of the modern era.

Key Details

• Dane passed away on December 25, 2024
• The cause was complications from a heart attack in late November
• His final match aired on October 26, 2024, on NWA Powerrr
• He teamed with Tim Storm to defeat Jake Dumas and Zyon

Career Highlights

• 2012: Debuted in NWA Houston with Raymond Rowe (WWE’s Erik)
• 2013: Began appearing in NJPW
• 2015: Won NWA World Heavyweight Championship from Hiroyoshi Tenzan
• 2020: Returned to NWA, becoming a two-time National Heavyweight Champion

Notable Quote

“Very few people have been as influential to my wrestling career as Jax. He was completely unselfish. That is no more evident than in our current tag team. He put me squarely on his shoulders and made it happen.” – Tim Storm

Looking Forward

Dane’s passing leaves a significant void in the NWA roster, where he was still actively competing and mentoring younger talent. His legacy includes matches with international stars like KUSHIDA, Shelton Benjamin, and the Good Brothers (Gallows and Anderson).

What are your favorite memories of Jax Dane’s wrestling career? Share your thoughts in the comments below.