The death of Jeremy Laymon at age 48 — who was Jax Dane in the ring — has shaken many in the wrestling world.

A National Wrestling Alliance press release has quotes from Tim Storm, who won the NWA World title from Dane on October 21, 2016.

“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,” Storm said in the release from the NWA. “Over that time, we have wrestled against, for, and with each other a hundred plus times … I’ve never been hit harder or thrown further than in my matches with Jax. It was mutual. 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. … The world was a better place with him in it, and he leaves a hole in my heart and in the NWA that can’t be filled. We roomed together on the road last year. We talked about wrestling and family … Jax loved his wife very much. He spoke about his father teaching him his work ethic and always felt the farm was home. He was proud of his stepson and how he matured into a man, and he loved his nieces dearly … My heart goes out to his entire family. My heartbreak is nothing compared to what his family is feeling.”

NWA Head of Talent Relations Pat Kenney (who wrestled as Simon Diamond) was quoted too: “Jax was a Grizzly Bear in front of the camera and a Teddy Bear behind it. … I know that the term ‘family man’ gets thrown around a lot, but that’s what he was. He spoke glowingly about his wife, Evelynda, and his stepson, Nico … As a talent, he had the ability to work with anyone, anywhere, no matter his spot on the card. He was truly energized by his most recent pairing with Tim Storm, as his positivity at recent tapings was contagious. God bless him and his family.”

More than just the current NWA roster was mourning Laymon’s passing.

Former NWA executive David Marquez shared his memory to Facebook: “Wrestling aside, J Dane Laymon was an awesome friend. Hearing the news of his passing is devastating. I’ve not met too many people in my field who agreed with my world views and ways, but he sure did. He was the most gentle giant, always empathetic and true. I will miss our chats. My condolences to his family, friends and fans.”

Hurricane Helms on X: “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 texts messages forever. RIP buddy.”

Pollo Del Mar on X: 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. The entire @NWA Family will miss him tremendously.

Jax Dane, Trevor Murdoch and EC3. Facebook photo

Jax Dane, Trevor Murdoch and EC3. Facebook photo

Trevor Murdoch on Facebook: “The world lost a good man. This one hurts! Jax was a man’s man. A brother and someone you could count on. He always had a hug and a smile for me. I have so much respect and love for this man. We will miss you Jax!!”

Slice Boogie on X: “He was one of the first vets I worked with when I got to the NWA, and he never treated me like the greenboy that I was. A true vet, true professional, and overall good dude.”

James Beard on Facebook: “Jax was a brother. He was as true a friend as you could ask for. A small group of us became close and basically held things together until Billy Corgan purchased the NWA. That’s probably why we felt and feel such pride in the brand. I had the privilege of officiating the match Jax won the NWA World Championship from Tenzan. He was an important part of keeping that Championship a respected honor. Most of all, I know how much he loved his family. Jax always had his priorities in order. He was a proud Son Of A Farmer and a friend and brother to the end. God Speed Big Guy!”

Jeremiah Plunkett on X: “I’ve been trying to think of the words for hours to address this, and I just don’t have them right now. I will simply say that I’m gutted. My condolences and sympathy to his family that he loved so much and spoke about glowingly. Thank you Jax… for it all.”

Konnan on X: “Great guy, passionate got to work with him in Impact always wanted to learn more. always in a jovial mood.”

Kenzie Paige on X: “My heart is broke. One of the first big guys to take me in. Please pray for the family. 😞❤️”

TOP PHOTOS: Left: Jax Dane and Tim Storm; right: Jax Dane and Kyle Davis.

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