Ben Askren, an Olympic wrestler and former UFC rivals, is no stranger to tough battles, but his most recent bout occurred outside of a cage. He did it for his own life. After spending almost two months in the hospital with a severe case of pneumonia, Askren got a double lung transplant, which changed his life forever.
A health scare that shocked the world of mixed martial arts
41-year-old Ben Askren went to the hospital after getting pneumonia that assaulted his life, which afterwards resulted in a staph infection and ultimately organ failure. He lost over fifty pounds during his 59 days in the hospital, 45 of which were spent in a coma, due to the severity of his condition. Askren’s family was told by doctors that he “died” four times, each time going through a 20-second pause in his heartbeat.
Doctors say Askren has a good chance of living a long, healthy life since he survived the physical and psychological trauma with a double lung transplant. About 24 to 25 days before his release from the hospital, the actual surgery had been carried out.
Uninsured – An expensive medical trip
Askren’s insurance did not cover the lung transplant, which was projected to run between $300,000 and $800,000. As a result, public fundraising efforts were launched. To help Askren and his family, campaigns were started on GoFundMe and Help Hope Live. Influencer-turned-boxer Jake Paul and UFC President Dana White were also connected to significant donations, though Paul’s reported $500,000 donation has not yet been verified.
Askren’s road to recovery – family, faith, and struggle
Now that he’s home, Askren is gradually getting stronger. He disclosed that, in stark contrast to the 45-pound curls he was able to execute prior to becoming ill, he is now finding it difficult to lift a five-pound dumbbell. He continues to have dyspnea, is 35 pounds under his ideal weight, and cannot walk without assistance. Askren is still hopeful and resolute.
In a tearful video update, he stated, “I am where I am now, but I know I’ll be somewhere different in a month.” Amy, his wife, stood by him during the ordeal and even kept a journal, which Askren read once he was conscious again. The former fighter frequently thinks back on his near-death experience, and the couple has three kids. When he asked about the severity of his condition, Amy replied, “Too close, a few times.”
His former rivals became supporters after he got unexpected messages from Jake Paul and Jorge Masvidal about his fight for survival. Askren received a heartfelt message from Jorge Masvidal, the man who famously knocked him out in the UFC with a record-setting flying knee: “God bless you.” I could come shake your hand and say a prayer with you when I return to America.
Jake Paul reportedly sent well wishes and financial support after eliminating Askren in a 2021 boxing match by first-round TKO. Askren conveyed his astonishment and gratitude, stating that he was profoundly touched and only got encouraging messages.
In reference to the deluge of favourable messages, Askren observed, “It was almost like I got to have my own funeral.” “It was simply amazing how much love the wrestling community showed.”
Learning to live again after being hospitalised
Now that he is at home, Askren enjoys the small things in life, like sleeping in his own bed, cooking his own food, and spending time with his loved ones. The physical toll is still there, though. In order to prevent organ rejection, he must take medication for the remainder of his life and is working to regain basic strength and mobility.
He has also come to regards with the fact that he will never be able to wrestle again, which is devastating for someone whose career was centred on athletic prowess. “Getting a second chance on life, it’s going to be interesting,” he says, keeping his gratitude and philosophical outlook. Making the most of life has always been my goal, and I plan to keep doing so.
A legendary history in wrestling and mixed martial arts
In combat sports, Ben Askren’s legacy is already assured. Askren was an Olympian and two-time NCAA Division I wrestling champion who dominated mixed martial arts for over a decade. He started his career with a 19-fight winning streak and held world titles in both Bellator and ONE Championship.
Askren made his UFC debut against former champion Robbie Lawler in 2019 after finally joining the organisation through a historic trade involving Demetrious Johnson. His time in the UFC was brief, though, as he retired after getting two straight defeats, including the notorious knockout by Masvidal.
Following his retirement, he had hip surgery and concentrated on mentoring young wrestlers at the Askren Wrestling Academy, which has seven locations across the US.
Support financially as well as mentally from a community that never left
Askren never felt isolated in spite of his health issues. Former coworkers, friends, and supporters came together to support him emotionally and financially. His social media posts were inundated with prayers and kind words, and he got visits from all over the nation.
Askren expressed gratitude to everyone who made contributions to GoFundMe and other initiatives in one video. He said, effectively moved, “I love you guys.” It had great significance. I’m hoping that I won’t be in this predicament for a very long time. I intend to live for a long time.
Towards the future – thankfulness, fortitude, and fresh starts
Askren’s struggle for survival is a tribute to human strength and the value of community, and it goes beyond simple physical healing. His impact endures through his wrestling academy, his story, and the lessons he’s learned, even though he might never again enter the cage.
One day, he hopes to use his platform to inspire others through telling the complete story of his journey in detail, perhaps with his wife Amy.
Askren remarked, “I’ve always tried to make the most of life.” “And I’m going to keep trying to do that.”
Concluding remarks
The tale of Ben Askren’s journey from a hospital bed to a hopeful recovery is one of grace, thankfulness, and perseverance. It tells the story of a man who faced death and decided to fight back, not just of a former champion athlete. He’s beginning over with the help of his loved ones, friends, competitors, and supporters, as well as a new set of lungs.
