“I only died four times… but I’m still here.” – Ben Askren
In a jaw-dropping twist to an already storied career, former UFC fighter and Olympic wrestler Ben Askren is now fighting his greatest battle – and he’s winning. After battling a life-threatening lung infection, surviving several cardiac arrests, and receiving a double lung transplant, the 40-year-old combat sports legend has begun a challenging journey toward recovery, with eyes around the world following every step.
A Life Hanging in the Balance
Askren was admitted to a Wisconsin hospital in late May with severe pneumonia caused by a staph infection. The condition escalated quickly. By mid-June, his lungs had failed, requiring emergency life support (ECMO) and mechanical ventilation.
In an emotional video posted on July 9, Askren revealed that during the crisis, his heart stopped four times. “Each time, for about 20 seconds,” he said with shocking honesty. It was more than a medical crisis – his survival was nothing short of a miracle.
The Transplant That Saved His Life
On June 30, Ben Askren underwent a double lung transplant, a last-resort operation for patients with end-stage lung failure. According to his wife, Amy Askren, the transplant came just in time — his body was deteriorating rapidly, and doctors were preparing the family for the worst.
“He lost 50 pounds in just 45 days,” Amy said. “He weighed less than he did as a teenager. We weren’t sure he’d make it.”
Memory Gaps and Mental Recovery
One of the most heartbreaking parts of this ordeal? Askren remembers nothing from May 28 to July 2. The fighter, known for his sharp wit and wrestling IQ, is now piecing together his near-death experience through notes and journals kept by his wife.
An Outpouring of Support from the Combat Sports Community
From MMA fighters to wrestling legends and even boxing rival Jake Paul, the support for Askren has been overwhelming. “It felt like I was watching my own funeral,” Ben said. “But it also made me realize how many lives I’ve touched.”
Jake Paul, who defeated Askren in their 2021 boxing showdown, put rivalry aside and shared a sincere message, offering prayers and well-wishes for his recovery. It was a rare moment of mutual respect in the often-brutal world of combat sports.
Editorial Take: A Real Fight Worth Watching
Ben Askren’s newest fight goes beyond the arena – it’s a powerful testament to human strength and resilience. This isn’t a tale of titles or takedowns. It’s a raw, emotional reminder that even the toughest warriors can be brought to their knees and rise again.
His story adds a new chapter to what it means to be a fighter. In the octagon, Askren was known for his grappling. But now, he’s showing the world what real grip looks like.
What’s Next for Ben Askren?
While his physical recovery will take months — possibly years — Askren has already won a different kind of fight. Here’s what to expect:
Continued rehab and monitoring for transplant rejection
Mental health support to process memory loss and trauma
A possible public speaking or advocacy role in transplant awareness
More video updates from Askren as he regains strength
Final Thoughts: The Legacy Just Got Bigger
Ben Askren’s MMA legacy was already sealed with his unbeaten wrestling run, Bellator and ONE Championship titles, and UFC career. But this — this is different.
It’s not just about athleticism. It’s about endurance. About family. About life.
At SportSnip.com, we salute Ben Askren – not just as a fighter in the cage, but as a survivor who continues to inspire.
