Ben Askren: Wrestling Icon & UFC Veteran in Life Battle

Ben Askren has been known for a long time for his toughness, humour, and unique style in the cage. A name synonymous with American wrestling success and a colorful UFC stint, Askren remains a widely respected figure in combat sports. But now, the spotlight isn’t on a title fight, it’s on a real-life battle far more serious.

Recently, the keyword “Ben Askren” has been trending again, not for another sports comeback, but due to a grave health scare. As of June 2025, Askren is in the hospital in Wisconsin with a serious case of pneumonia. Fans and other fighters have come together to show their support.

A Legendary Start: The Rise of Ben Askren

Ben Askren’s journey began long before the UFC. A wrestling prodigy at the University of Missouri, he captured two NCAA Division I national championships. His dominance earned him a spot on Team USA at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, where he reached the quarterfinals in freestyle wrestling. Known for his unique “funk style” wrestling and fearless attitude, Askren quickly gained recognition beyond college mats.

After the Olympics, Askren pivoted to mixed martial arts (MMA), a transition that shaped the next decade of his career.

Success Across Continents: Ben Askren’s MMA Legacy

Ben Askren didn’t start his MMA journey in the UFC. Instead, he dominated overseas promotions like Bellator and ONE Championship. In both leagues, he went undefeated and claimed welterweight titles, showcasing a ground game that few could solve.

Fans admired his ability to control fights without relying on flashy knockouts. His technique wasn’t always pretty, but it was brutally effective. These early victories built the legacy that would later lead to his high-profile UFC signing.

Ben Askren UFC Record: Short but Not Forgotten

In November 2018, Askren finally signed with the UFC, a move that brought excitement and skepticism. Known for his wrestling, many wondered how he’d perform against elite strikers.

Ben Askren’s UFC record stands at 1 win and 2 losses:

Win vs. Robbie Lawler (controversial submission)
Loss vs. Jorge Masvidal (5-second KO, the fastest in UFC history)
Loss vs. Demian Maia (submission)

While brief, Askren’s UFC run was unforgettable. The knockout loss to Masvidal became one of the most viral moments in MMA history. But in typical Askren fashion, he handled it with humor and grace, endearing himself even more to fans.

Life After the Octagon: From Retirement to Jake Paul

In November 2019, Ben Askren retired from professional MMA. But retirement didn’t mean stepping away from the spotlight.

In 2021, Askren returned to competition, not in a cage, but in a boxing ring. His opponent? YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul. The match took place at Atlanta’s Mercedes-Benz Stadium and drew millions of viewers.

Unfortunately, Askren lost via first-round TKO. Despite the defeat, the bout showed how his name still held major drawing power in combat sports circles.

Ben Askren Health Update: A True Battle Off the Mat

In June 2025, shocking news emerged: Ben Askren was hospitalized with severe pneumonia. The illness developed quickly and required immediate medical attention in Wisconsin.

Ben’s wife, Amy Askren, publicly addressed the situation via Facebook and later confirmed with TMZ that “he is definitely still fighting” and very much alive, countering false rumors of his death.

“We welcome all prayers for healing and peace,” Amy wrote. “He’s currently in the hospital and unable to respond... We’re trying to support our children as thoughtfully as we can.”

The couple shares three children, Alex (12), Andi (9), and Ozi (7). Amy’s updates have been heartfelt, thanking friends, fans, and community members for their unwavering support. The Ben Askren health crisis has united fans and athletes alike, including public well-wishes from Daniel Cormier, Ariel Helwani, and others in the MMA world.

As of the latest Ben Askren update, he remains in recovery, with hopes that his strong will and fighting spirit will carry him through.

Ben Askren Net Worth: From Wrestling Mats to Media Spotlight

While some fighters fade into obscurity after retirement, Ben Askren has continued to stay relevant. With a career spanning wrestling, MMA, boxing, podcasting, and coaching, his income streams have diversified.

As of 2025, Ben Askren net worth is estimated to be around $2.5 million to $3 million. His earnings include:

UFC payouts and fight bonuses
Sponsorships and endorsements
Boxing match with Jake Paul (reportedly over $500,000)
Podcasts and appearances on sports media
Coaching and wrestling clinics across the country

Askren’s personality, a mix of intelligence, sarcasm, and Midwest charm, has made him a favorite in interviews and podcasts. His commentary on MMA and wrestling is both insightful and entertaining, further solidifying his post-fight legacy.

Why Ben Askren Matters: More Than Just a Fighter

Askren’s appeal goes beyond his fighting style. He represents something different in a sport often dominated by loud personalities and highlight-reel knockouts. He brought technical brilliance to mainstream fans, showed humility in defeat, and always maintained authenticity.

His current health battle only strengthens that image. In a world where athletes often seem untouchable, Ben Askren now reminds everyone of human vulnerability and the power of community support.

From wrestling mats in Missouri to global MMA stages, and now a hospital bed in Wisconsin, one thing remains unchanged, Ben Askren is still fighting.

What’s Next for Ben Askren?

The road to recovery may be long, but few doubt Askren’s resilience. Whether it’s dominating college wrestling, competing in the UFC, or facing life-threatening illness, he continues to show what real strength looks like.

Fans are encouraged to continue following Ben Askren health updates through reliable sources. The MMA world and wider public remain hopeful that this fighter will once again beat the odds, just as he always has.

For a deeper look into Jake Paul’s fighting credentials, check out this detailed analysis.