A deeply emotional Ben Askren has broken his silence in a candid video update from his hospital bed, shedding light on the terrifying ordeal that followed his double lung transplant.
'I Only Died Four Times'
In a clip posted to Instagram on 9 July 2025, the 40-year-old former UFC and Bellator welterweight champion revealed he has no memory of the period between 28 May and 2 July. Instead, he pieced together the events by reading a journal kept by his wife, Amy: 'I just read through my wife's journal. It's like a movie... I only died four times, where the ticker stopped for about 20 seconds.'
Askren was admitted to hospital in Wisconsin after developing a severe case of pneumonia triggered by a staph infection. As his condition deteriorated, he was placed on a ventilator and later on an ECMO machine, an advanced life support system. He was added to the transplant list on 24 June and, just six days later, underwent a double lung transplant.
Throughout the 45-day medical crisis, Askren lost nearly 50 pounds, his weight dropping to 147 lbs—something he hadn't experienced since his teenage years. 'I haven't been 147 lbs since I was 15 years old... that was a battle. I don't remember most of it,' he said, describing the experience as a blur, pieced together only through his wife's meticulous notes.
Now in recovery, Askren is focused on regaining strength and relearning basic functions. Though visibly frail, his spirit remains strong. He shared that he has begun light physical therapy and is gradually adjusting to the demands of post-transplant life.
During the video, Askren frequently paused to compose himself, clearly moved by the support he received. 'The thing that was most impactful to me was all the love I felt... it was almost like I got to have my own funeral,' he said, referring to the flood of encouragement from fans, friends, and the wider wrestling and MMA communities.
Despite the trauma, Askren says he feels deeply motivated to return to a life of purpose. 'I'm more motivated than ever to keep giving back and do what I can... thank you guys,' he told viewers. He also hinted that he and his wife may one day share a more detailed account of the experience.
Before retiring from professional combat sports in 2019, Askren was one of the most decorated wrestlers-turned-fighters of his generation. He held welterweight titles in both Bellator and ONE Championship, and also represented the United States at the 2008 Beijing Olympics.
Though still recovering, Askren is eager to return to his roots, potentially resuming his coaching duties in Wisconsin. His wrestling academy has long served as a training ground for young athletes, and he expressed hope that his journey could inspire others facing serious health battles.
For now, Askren remains focused on healing—grateful for another chance at life and the community that carried him through the darkest chapter of his journey.
