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Jaka Echevarria in critical condition after heart attack GoFundMe

Published 4 September 2025

Jonathan "Jaka" Echevarria, a veteran of the independent wrestling scene and a two-time EVOLVE tag team champion, is in critical condition in the intensive care unit after suffering a heart attack, his family announced on Thursday. His sister, Annette, launched a GoFundMe to help cover mounting hospital bills and recovery expenses as the wrestler fights for his life.

The fundraiser, created by Annette on behalf of her brother, describes Echevarria 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," and says the family is "holding tightly to faith, praying for his complete healing and full restoration." The page says the family expects ongoing costs for physical therapy and support during his time away from work, and implores donors to help ensure money does not become an additional burden while he recovers.

The campaign has drawn significant support from within and beyond the wrestling community. AEW President Tony Khan is listed as having donated $5,000, and wrestlers including Cezar Bononi, Anthony Henry and Joey Janela are among those who have contributed, according to the GoFundMe page. Reports...

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