Ben Askren: From Olympic Mat Legend to Fighting for His Life...and Winning

Ben Askren’s life has always been defined by fierce competition, grit, and a relentless spirit. From dominating at the University of Missouri in folkstyle wrestling to becoming a world champion in Bellator, ONE Championship, and competing in the UFC and Olympics, Ben’s athletic legacy is undeniable  His signature style, wrestling with control, pace, and unyielding pressure, earned him respect across combat sports.

A Life-Changing Illness

In early June 2025, Askren was hospitalized in Wisconsin with severe pneumonia, triggered by a staph infection. His condition worsened rapidly, and he was placed on a ventilator and later on ECMO support to sustain oxygen levels. Doctors warned a lung transplant might be required.

By mid-June, his care team listed him for a double lung transplant, and on June 24, the life-saving surgery was performed successfully.

Near-Death and Near-Miracles

Askren was unconscious for much of his hospital stay, from late May into early July, and later revealed he has no memory of the period from May 28 to July 2. He says he died four times, with his heart stopping for brief periods, and lost about 50 pounds over 45 days, dropping to 147 lb, his lowest since adolescence.

The emotional toll was immense, but so was the outpouring of support. From families sharing prayers to Dana White, Jake Paul, and Jorge Masvidal offering donations and encouragement, the community rallied to save him. One anonymous donor even contributed $500,000, helping offset transplant costs not covered by insurance.

The Road to Recovery

After nearly 59 days in the hospital, Askren was discharged and is now back home with his family. In emotional video updates, he admitted he still can’t walk unaided, and is relearning basic functions like making his bed and eating on his own. But his spirit remains unbroken. He declared, “I’m going to work my a– off and learn to walk and move again.”.

In another post, he challenged his followers: “There’s barely anybody in as low a condition as me right now… Get started. I’ve only got one way to go, you do too.”.

Ben has also shared gratitude and thanks publicly, to his wife Amy, to the transplant donor’s family, and to all who reached out. He likened the support he received to attending his own funeral, a surreal moment of love and hope.

What This Means for Wrestlers and Fans

Ben Askren’s struggle and resurgence is a powerful reminder that life’s toughest battles often come off the mat. From NCAA champion to world-class MMA competitor and now a survivor of a harrowing medical crisis, Askren continues to embody one lesson above all: never quit.

His recovery is ongoing, but his message is already clear: no excuses. Even in the deepest valleys, renewal is possible with faith, community, and relentless grit.

To track his updates, watch his videos, or support his family, fans can follow Askren’s personal social channels. His journey serves as inspiration, not just to wrestlers, but anyone facing serious adversity.