Former UFC fighter Ben Askren has provided a rare and candid update on his health, following a harrowing near-death experience that culminated in a double lung transplant last year.
A Terrifying Health Battle
The 41-year-old retired mixed martial artist faced a life-or-death struggle after contracting a severe case of pneumonia in the summer of 2023. The illness was so intense that Askren 'flatlined' four times and lost a staggering 50 pounds during his fight for survival. This critical condition necessitated the drastic measure of a double lung transplant.
Askren spent a total of 59 days in hospital recovering from the intense procedure. Speaking to TMZ, he described the profound psychological impact, stating he felt he had 'kind of died once' and was 'left Earth for 40 days' with no recollection or communication.
Life After a Major Health Scare
Now looking ahead, Askren admits his life will 'look significantly different'. He highlighted the poignant example of being unable to attend wrestling tournaments with his own children, a normal activity now rendered impossible due to his compromised immune system and ongoing recovery.
Despite these challenges, the former Olympian struck an optimistic note. 'I feel like I'm finally at that point where I can kind of take a deep breath and easily accomplish the things I need to in the day,' he said, indicating his health is finally on a positive trajectory heading into 2026.
From the Octagon to a Fight for Life
Ben Askren first rose to prominence as a two-time NCAA Division I wrestling champion at the University of Missouri before representing the United States at the 2008 Olympics. He then forged a legendary MMA career, boasting a decade-long undefeated streak and capturing world titles in Bellator and ONE Championship.
His move to the UFC in 2019 saw a debut victory over Robbie Lawler, but was followed by high-profile losses to Jorge Masvidal and Demian Maia, leading to his retirement from MMA. He made a brief, unsuccessful foray into boxing against YouTube star Jake Paul in 2021.
Married to his wife Amy since 2010, the couple share three children: two daughters and a son. His recent reflections underscore a dramatic shift from the physical battles of the sporting arena to a deeply personal fight for his life and a new perspective on his future.
