Ben Askren, the former Olympic wrestler and MMA star, has recently undergone a challenging health crisis as he battles pneumonia. His wife, Amy, shared updates on social media, revealing that he was placed on a ventilator and added to the lung transplant donor list on June 24. Askren’s situation escalated to a double lung transplant, reflecting the severity of his condition. This dire scenario has garnered attention across social media, particularly from former opponents and fans.
Jake Paul, the YouTube star-turned-professional boxer, paid tribute to Askren during this tough time. He acknowledged Askren’s resilience and strength, stating, “Just proved that he’s one of the toughest fighters of all time.” Paul’s words came shortly after Askren disclosed that he had “died four times,” with moments where his heart stopped for about 20 seconds. This startling revelation emphasized the gravity of Askren’s illness and further highlighted the importance of support from friends, family, and fans.
In a video shared on his social media platforms, Askren expressed confusion regarding the last six weeks of his life, citing a lack of memory due to his health issues. This period was filled with significant challenges, as he lost about 50 pounds during his hospital stay. Despite these struggles, Askren reflected on the overwhelming sense of love and support he received, stating it felt akin to having his own funeral while still alive. Such sentiments underline the emotional weight of his experiences and the connections he has forged throughout his career.
Askren’s athletic background is noteworthy, as he won two NCAA wrestling titles at the University of Missouri and represented the United States in the 2008 Summer Olympics. Transitioning from wrestling, he became a prominent figure in mixed martial arts (MMA), competing for organizations like Bellator and ONE Championship. Later, he made headlines in the UFC before stepping away from the sport after a loss to Demian Maia in 2019, concluding his professional MMA career with an impressive record of 19 wins, 2 losses, and one no contest.
The relationship between Askren and Paul is particularly interesting, as they fought in a high-profile bout in April 2021, where Paul won decisively in the first round. This match heightened the rivalry between the two fighters, but Paul’s recent support for Askren highlights a mutual respect that transcends their competitive history. It serves as a reminder of the sportsmanship that can exist even amidst rivalries in the combat sports world.
As Askren continues to recover from his double lung transplant, the outpouring of support he has received reflects not only his toughness as a fighter but also the strong bonds he has formed throughout his life. While his immediate health concerns remain significant, the encouragement from fans and fellow athletes indicates a hopeful path toward recovery and a potential return to form, whether in competition or other pursuits.
