Multiple-time champion dies ‘unexpectedly’ as tributes paid to ‘most unusual participant’
Eight-time bowling champion Jakob Butturff has died suddenly, the Professional Bowling Association has confirmed, as tributes have been made to a sportsman called “one of the most unique players in PBA history”
Bowling superstar Jakob Butturff has suddenly passed away at the age of 32(Image: jakobbutturff300/Instagram )
A multiple-time champion has sadly passed away “unexpectedly” as tributes have been paid one of the sport’s “most unique players”.
Jakob Butturff, was an eight-time Professional Bowling Association (PBA) Tour champion, tragically passed away at just the age of 32 on Friday (July 31)
The bowling world is now in shock at the sudden death of a young man his fellow bowlers affectionately dubbed “Butters” as details regarding his sudden passing are yet to be disclosed. Both the PBA and their fellow bowlers have spoken out about Butturff’s sad passing and paid tribute to a “top player in the sport”.
Tributes have been paid to Butturff, who many affectionately call ‘Butters’(Image: jakobbutturff300/Instagram )
PBA Commissioner Tom Clark also paid tribute in the statement made by the association. He said: “Jakob was one of the most unique players in PBA history. Fans marvelled at his delivery, as he rode a wave of strikes into becoming a top player in the sport, capable of winning at any time, in any event.
“Jakob was kind, he was respectful, and he was a champion. He will never be forgotten. Our hearts are with all Butters touched on his one-of-a-kind journey.”
Butturff was born and raised in Las Vegas, did not post much on Instagram but had several photos and loving messages to his girlfriend Mya.
He first made a name for himself in the bowling scene during the 2016 season. He won his first two PBA Tour titles and dominated the PBA Regional Tour, winning a record nine titles and earning West Region and Northwest Region Player of the Year honours.
Butturff alongside his girlfriend Mya(Image: jakobbutturff300/Instagram )
Butturff amassed 27 PBA Regional Tour titles and added Northwest Region Player of the Year awards in 2017 and 2018. During the 2019 PBA Tour season, Butturff finished as the runner-up in Chris Schenkel PBA Player of the Year voting.
He won three titles, including his signature major win in the 2019 USBC Masters, finished runner-up to Jason Belmonte in the PBA World Championship.
Butturff was a seven-time member of Team USA, helping them take the 2017 QubicaAMF World Cup and multiple gold and silver medals. He bowled the 28th televised 300 game in PBA history during the 2020 PBA Tour Finals.
A number of his fellow bowlers have also paid tribute. to him on social media. Jason Belmonte simply wrote: “The PBA has lost one of its kindest.”
EJ Tackett wrote: “It ain’t supposed to be like this. It’s nothing short of soul crushing. Butters was one of the guys that would give the shirt off his back for anyone in need and he showed that time and time again. The bowling world lost today and it will never be the same. We all love you buddy. Until we meet again my friend.”
AJ Johnson wrote: “Butters, I don’t even have the words right now, but just know you will be missed, loved, and always remembered! You had one of the biggest hearts and made everyone laugh! I love you Butters, now go give your mom the biggest hug you always gave us!”
