LAS VEGAS: Eight-time PBA Tour champion Jakob Butturff has died unexpectedly, leaving the professional bowling community mourning the loss of one of the sport’s most recognised figures.
The Professional Bowlers Association (PBA) confirmed Butturff’s death on Friday, July 31, 2026, but did not disclose details about the cause, stating that he “died unexpectedly.”
Butturff rose to prominence during the 2016 PBA season, when he secured his first two PBA Tour titles and quickly became one of the most exciting competitors in professional bowling.
Before becoming a PBA Tour star, Butturff made a strong impact on the PBA Regional Tour, where he won nine titles and earned West Region and Northwest Region Player of the Year honours.
The PBA is deeply saddened by the sudden passing of Jakob Butturff.
Our thoughts and condolences are with his family and loved ones. pic.twitter.com/2m4ZjAgXUM
— PBA Tour (@PBATour) August 1, 2026
Throughout his career, he collected 27 PBA Regional Tour titles and received Northwest Region Player of the Year recognition again in 2017 and 2018.
One of the biggest achievements of his career came in 2019 when he won the prestigious USBC Masters title, one of professional bowling’s most respected championships.
The following year, Butturff finished as the runner-up in the Chris Schenkel PBA Player of the Year voting.
Butturff’s sudden death has sparked an outpouring of tributes from fans, fellow players, and members of the bowling community.
PBA Commissioner Tom Clark described him as “one of the most unique players in PBA history.”
Fellow PBA competitor EJ Tackett paid tribute to Butturff, writing, “It ain’t supposed to be like this.”
Born and raised in Las Vegas, Butturff also spent several years living in Phoenix, Arizona. Known for his distinctive style and remarkable achievements, he became one of the most memorable figures in modern professional bowling.
With eight PBA Tour championship titles, 27 Regional Tour victories, and a USBC Masters crown, Butturff leaves behind a lasting legacy in the sport.
