The MMA world is rallying behind Ben Askren, a former UFC fighter currently facing a severe health crisis. News of Askren’s hospitalization due to severe pneumonia has shocked fans and fellow fighters alike. This article delves into what happened to Ben Askren, providing updates on his condition and reflecting on his impactful career.
Ben Askren, known for his wrestling prowess and unique personality, has transitioned from the fighting arena to coaching. However, recent events have placed him in the toughest fight of his life. As we explore the details of his current health battle, we also remember his achievements and the support pouring in from the MMA community.
Ben Askren’s Health Crisis: A Detailed Look
On June 7, Ben Askren’s wife, Amy Askren, shared concerning news on her Facebook account. Ben was hospitalized with severe pneumonia and has been under sedation since then. The latest update, provided on Tuesday, reveals that Askren remains in a critical state, described as ‘in limbo,’ and is undergoing evaluation for a possible lung transplant.
I haven’t shared an update because Ben has been in limbo for a while and I was hoping to have him wake up and be the one to decide what to share. I’ve had some media people contact me that they are going to share an update and I would rather it come from me.
Amy Askren’s updates provide a transparent and heartfelt glimpse into the challenges the family is facing. The MMA community has responded with an outpouring of support, highlighting Askren’s positive impact on those around him.
Amy Askren’s Update: The Road Ahead
Amy Askren’s messages convey both the gravity of the situation and the hope for Ben’s recovery. Despite the severity of his condition, there have been small signs of progress.
Ben is still on a ventilator and ecmo to support him while he heals. There are good days and bad, but on the good, they have been able to wean his sedation enough for him to open his eyes and squeeze hands. His body can’t handle coming off sedation too much yet. I’m still praying for a miracle with his current lungs, but they are currently starting the evaluation process for lung transplant.
The possibility of a lung transplant underscores the seriousness of Askren’s condition. Amy has requested prayers for his healing and for a smooth transplant process should it be necessary.
An Outpouring of Support
The MMA community has rallied around Ben and Amy Askren, offering messages of support and prayers during this challenging time. The impact of these gestures is profound, as Amy shared:
Please pray for his continued healing, and if transplant is the solution, that he can get on the list quickly and easily. I know transplants are such a blessing and I’m overwhelmed at the thought of him receiving a gift like that. No one would take better care of that gift than Ben.
This support highlights the close-knit nature of the MMA world, where fighters and fans alike come together in times of need.
Ben Askren’s MMA Career: A Look Back
Ben Askren’s career is marked by his exceptional wrestling skills and strategic approach to MMA. Before his UFC stint, Askren made a name for himself in Bellator and ONE Championship.
Askren began his professional MMA journey with Bellator in 2010, where he quickly rose to prominence. He captured the Bellator welterweight title and defended it successfully four times, showcasing his dominance in the division. His wrestling-heavy style frustrated opponents and earned him a reputation as one of the toughest matchups in the sport.
Transitioning to ONE Championship, Askren continued his reign, winning the promotion’s welterweight title. His undefeated record and championship pedigree made him a valuable commodity in the MMA world, eventually leading to a historic trade with the UFC.
UFC and Beyond
In 2018, Askren was part of a groundbreaking trade between ONE Championship and the UFC, swapping places with former UFC flyweight champion Demetrious Johnson. His arrival in the UFC was highly anticipated, but his time with the promotion was short-lived.
Askren’s UFC career included a memorable victory against Robbie Lawler and losses to Jorge Masvidal and Demian Maia. His fight against Masvidal ended in a record-breaking five-second knockout, while his bout with Maia concluded his MMA career.
Following his MMA retirement, Askren participated in a boxing match against Jake Paul in 2021, which he lost by knockout. Since then, he has returned to his wrestling roots, coaching at his Askren Wrestling Academy in Wisconsin.
Final Thoughts
Ben Askren’s current health battle is a stark reminder of life’s unpredictability. From his wrestling achievements to his MMA career and coaching endeavors, Askren has left an indelible mark on the sport.
As Ben Askren fights for his life, the MMA community unites in support, demonstrating the strength and camaraderie within the sport. The journey ahead remains uncertain, but the collective hope and prayers offer strength to Ben and his family during this challenging chapter. We continue to wish him a full and speedy recovery.
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