Bowling Star Jakob Butturff Dies at Age 32

Jakob Butturff Professional Bowlers Association sudden death eight-time champion bowling tributes

Professional bowler Jakob Butturff, an eight‑time PBA Tour champion and 2019 USBC Masters winner, died unexpectedly on Friday, July 31, 2026. The Professional Bowlers Association confirmed his death but did not disclose a cause.

Butturff was celebrated for his unconventional left‑handed corkscrew delivery, which made him one of the sport’s most recognizable athletes. Over his career he amassed eight PBA Tour titles, 27 regional titles, more than $1 million in earnings across 214 events, and represented Team USA seven times, including a 2017 Qubica AMF World Cup victory.

PBA Commissioner Tom Clark and fellow bowlers such as EJ Tackett and AJ Johnson issued heartfelt tributes, describing Butturff as “one of the most unique players in PBA history” and noting his kindness, respect, and champion spirit. The bowling community has responded with an outpouring of grief and remembrance.