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“Ben Askren’s Fight Beyond the Ring: A Story of Survival, Strength & Second Chances”

In the world of sports, few stories are as raw and moving as that of former MMA fighter and Olympic wrestler Ben Askren, who recently revealed that he underwent a double lung transplant after battling a life-threatening case of pneumonia. Known for his resilience inside the cage, Askren’s toughest opponent yet came not in the ring, but in a hospital room.

🏥 The Silent Battle

Ben Askren, 40, was hospitalized in Wisconsin after his condition suddenly deteriorated in late May 2025. What initially appeared to be a severe case of pneumonia turned into something much more critical. Over the course of the next month and a half, his health worsened to the point that he was placed on a ventilator and eventually listed for a lung transplant on June 24.

In an emotional video shared on Instagram, Askren admitted he had no memory of the events that took place over nearly six weeks. “No recollection. Zero idea. I just read through my wife’s journal. It’s like a movie… I only died four times — my ticker stopped for about 20 seconds,” he said with a mix of humor and disbelief.

❤️ A Community of Love

Throughout his battle, one constant remained — love and support from his family, friends, fans, and the wider MMA and wrestling communities. His wife, Amy, was a pillar of strength, regularly updating fans via social media and keeping a journal of the turbulent journey.

Askren reflected on this outpouring of support in his video:

“The thing that was most impeccable to me was all the love I felt. It was almost like I got to have my own funeral.”

Those words hit differently — a bittersweet sentiment about witnessing people’s love while still being alive to feel it.

⚖️ A Warrior’s Past

Before this life-altering health crisis, Askren had already lived a life that most only dream of. He was born in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and grew up in Wisconsin, where he still lives today and runs a youth wrestling academy.

• 🥇 Two-time NCAA Wrestling Champion at the University of Missouri

• 🤼‍♂️ Represented the U.S. at the 2008 Beijing Olympics

• 🥊 Fought in top MMA promotions: Bellator, ONE Championship, and the UFC

• 💥 Retired from MMA in 2019 with a record of 19 wins, 2 losses, and 1 no contest

After retirement, he made a brief return in 2021 in a highly publicized boxing match against YouTuber Jake Paul, which ended in a first-round TKO loss. But that fight was nothing compared to the war he just survived.

💪 Physical & Emotional Recovery

Ben lost over 50 pounds during his 45-day hospital stay. While the weight loss is significant, he remains optimistic about the road ahead. Physical rehabilitation is ongoing, but he now has something many take for granted — the ability to breathe freely.

Recovery after a double lung transplant is no easy feat. Patients face months of monitoring, medication, and rehabilitation. But if anyone is equipped for that battle, it’s a seasoned wrestler who’s trained his body and mind to endure pain, pressure, and setbacks.

Askren’s current focus isn’t on returning to the spotlight — it’s on rebuilding his life from the inside out. Breathing, walking, and slowly regaining strength — each step is a win.

🌱 Life Beyond the Mat

Though Askren was known for his trash talk and confidence inside the octagon, his recent vulnerability has revealed a new side — humble, grateful, and grounded. He’s a husband, a father, a coach, and now, a survivor of something most wouldn’t wish on anyone.

In many ways, this chapter could become the most impactful part of his legacy. His story isn’t about wins and losses anymore — it’s about resilience, grace under pressure, and the unbreakable human spirit.

🗣️ Message to Fans

The outpouring of love for Ben continues online, with fans leaving thousands of supportive messages. His experience has already inspired others to look at life a little differently — with more appreciation, awareness, and love.

His message to fans is clear:

“Life is fragile. I’m grateful to still be here. And I’ve never felt more loved.”

🎯 What’s Next?

While it’s too early to predict what Ben’s professional future holds, it wouldn’t be surprising to see him:

• Speaking publicly about mental health and recovery

• Helping others through coaching, mentoring, or advocacy

• Writing a book or sharing his journey in a documentary or podcast

Regardless of the path he chooses, one thing is for sure — Ben Askren’s second chance at life will be lived with intention.

💬 Final Thought:

Ben’s journey reminds us that real strength isn’t just measured in knockouts or medals — it’s measured in moments when you fight for your life, even when you don’t remember doing it.