Decorated X Games, Motorcross Star Dead at 27

The athlete was killed in an accident.

Australian motorcross star and X Games medalist Jayo Archer has died at 27 years old. ESPN reports that he was killed in an accident on Wednesday, Feb. 21 in his hometown of Melbourne, Australia.

Archer is best known for being the first rider to perform a triple backflip on a dirt bike in competition, landing it during Best Trick at Nitro World Games in Brisbane, Australia in 2022. It was this same trick he was reportedly practicing when he passed away. 

Archer was also a two-time X Games medalist—most recently winning bronze in the Best Trick category at the 2023 X Games in Ventura, CA—and a member of action sports collective Nitro Circus.

"Jayo was the epitome of passion, hard work & determination," wrote Nitro Circus founder Travis Pastrana on Instagram. "He pushed what was possible on a dirt bike to heights never seen before. A positive influence to those around him. And above all else a great human being and friend to us all. Sending our thoughts and love to Jayo's family and friends. We love you mate. Ride in peace."

Archer's triple backflip was a huge moment for both him an the sport, and he immediately followed it up by proposing to his girlfriend Beth King, whom he was set to marry later this year. 

"We are deeply saddened by Jayo Archer's passing and our thoughts and prayers go out to his parents and fiancée," said Scott Guglielmino, interim COO at X Games, in a statement to ESPN. "One of the most committed and charismatic FMX riders, Jayo will be missed by the X Games family."