Ben Askren, the decorated former champion in both wrestling and mixed martial arts, has shared his first public statement since undergoing a life-saving double lung transplant. His emotional message provides a candid look at a health battle far more challenging than any opponent he faced in the cage or on the mat.
Earlier this year, Askren’s health took a critical turn when a severe case of pneumonia developed from a staph infection. The situation deteriorated rapidly, leading to the necessity of a major surgical intervention. Askren`s wife, Amy, had been providing updates to the public during this harrowing period, noting the critical condition he was in.
Speaking from his hospital bed in a video message, the fighter known affectionately as “Funky Ben” described the surreal experience of the past months. He revealed that he has no memory of the period stretching from May 28th to July 2nd, a significant blank space in his consciousness. He pieced together the severity of his condition by reading his wife’s journal.
Askren recounted the startling detail that during the peak of his crisis, his heart stopped multiple times – a stark reminder of how close he came to not making it. The physical toll has also been immense; he noted his weight had dropped to 147 pounds, a size he hadn`t been since he was a teenager.
Despite the physical hardship and the gaps in his memory, the most profound impact on Askren was the outpouring of support he received from the wrestling and combat sports communities. He described it as experiencing something akin to attending his own funeral, hearing how much people cared and appreciated him while he was still alive. This wave of affection, he stated, has left him feeling more motivated than ever to give back to the communities that supported him through his darkest hours.
Messages of support came from across the sports world, including prominent figures like Daniel Cormier, Joe Rogan, Chuck Norris, and many fellow athletes and coaches. This widespread well-wishes underscored the deep respect and affection held for Askren, not just for his athletic achievements but for his unique personality and contributions to the sport.
Askren`s career saw him dominate collegiate wrestling, becoming a four-time NCAA Division I All-American, before transitioning to MMA where he captured world titles in Bellator and ONE Championship with his relentless grappling style. After retiring from active competition, he remained involved through coaching and media, continuing to influence the next generation. His resilience, a trademark of his athletic career, is now being tested in a different, far more personal arena.
While the road to full recovery is acknowledged as long and challenging, Askren`s message was ultimately one of gratitude and determination. He expressed appreciation for the strain the ordeal placed on his family and close friends and hinted that more details about the journey might be shared in the future. As various fundraising efforts continue to help cover his substantial medical expenses, Ben Askren’s survival and public return stand as a testament to medical expertise, personal fortitude, and the powerful bonds of community.
