Ben Askren Shares Remarkable Recovery Journey After Life-Threatening Illness

Former mixed martial arts star Ben Askren has provided a significant health update more than a month after undergoing a double lung transplant due to a serious illness. In a recent video posted to social media, Askren recounts his harrowing experience, revealing he was hospitalized and lost track of time during his battle for survival.

From his hospital bed, Askren disclosed that he has no recollection of the time frame between May 28 and July 2. This absence of memory underscores the severity of his condition, leaving him to piece together what transpired with the help of his wife’s journal.

“It was like a movie,” he shared. The gravity of his situation was further highlighted when he stated, “I only died four times, where the ticker stopped for about 20 seconds.” Despite this terrifying ordeal, Askren remains grateful and optimistic.

Triumph Over Adversity

Following his successful double lung transplant, Askren expressed relief and determination as he embarks on the road to recovery. He stated, “But I got the double lung transplant. I made it out to the other side of it. Gaining quite a bit of strength. Learning to use everything again.” Remarkably, he shared that he recently weighed 147 pounds, a weight he has not seen since he was 15 years old.

His remarkable journey has not only concerned physical recovery but also emotional and mental rejuvenation. He emphasized that he was unaware of most details surrounding his illness, which adds to the complexity of his experience.

The Support of the Wrestling Community

Askren’s wife, Amy Askren, provided updates throughout this challenging period, describing how her husband received a donor lung after his health took a dramatic downturn in May. This vital support from his family and the wrestling community proved to be essential during his time of need.

Reflecting on the overwhelming love and support from fans, Askren noted, “The thing that was most impactful to me was all the love I felt from everybody. It was almost like I got to be at my own funeral … The outpouring of love from the wrestling community was just amazing.” This powerful sense of community has fueled his motivation to give back.

A New Chapter: Embracing Opportunities

In addition to his recovery, Askren is exploring new professional opportunities. He recently signed with Real American Freestyle, a venture led by wrestling icon Hulk Hogan, aiming to popularize professional freestyle wrestling. This collaboration illustrates Askren’s commitment to the sport he loves and his dedication to inspiring the next generation of athletes.

The 40-year-old athlete’s accomplishments are impressive. He became an NCAA champion in the 170-pound division in 2006 and 2007 and was also a distinguished member of Team USA in the 2008 Olympics. Askren has claimed gold medals at various international competitions, including the 2005 Pan American Championships and the 2009 World Championships.

Moving from Wrestling to MMA

Askren’s journey in combat sports took a significant turn when he transitioned to mixed martial arts in 2010. His debut in Bellator paved the way for a successful career, which later included stints in ONE Championship and the UFC.

During his time in the UFC, Askren achieved notable victories, including a submission win over Robbie Lawler at UFC 235. However, he also faced setbacks, such as his defeat against Jorge Masvidal in a highly publicized match. In 2021, Askren ventured into boxing, facing off against social media star Jake Paul.

As his story unfolds, the resilience and determination shown by Askren stand as a testament to his character. Fighters in every discipline face adversity, but Askren’s experience highlights the importance of community and support in overcoming obstacles.

Continuing the Fight

Moving forward, Askren embodies the spirit of perseverance. His journey is a reminder of the fragility of health and the strength found in solidarity. With a renewed sense of purpose, he aims to use his platform to uplift others who face similar challenges.

As he continues to recover and embrace new opportunities, Askren remains an inspiring figure in the world of sports. The fight he faces every day resonates far beyond the ring, touching the lives of fans and fellow athletes alike.

In closing, Askren’s story is not just one of survival, but also of hope and motivation. He has emerged from a near-death experience ready to tackle life’s next challenges, inspiring others to do the same.