Former UFC star and Olympic wrestler Ben Askren has shared a dramatic update on his health, revealing that he 'died four times' before undergoing a life-saving double lung transplant. The 40-year-old athlete, known for his wrestling credentials and MMA career, opened up from his hospital bed, recounting a terrifying fight for survival.
Ben Askren's Health Crisis
What happened to Askren began with what appeared to be a common illness. In early June, he was hospitalised after developing severe pneumonia caused by a staph infection. Within days, the situation escalated. His lungs failed, and he was placed on life support, including a ventilator and an extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) machine to keep his heart and lungs functioning.
The severity of the crisis became clear when Askren revealed his heart stopped four separate times for roughly 20 seconds each.
'That's not ideal. But I got the double lung transplant. I made it out the other side of it. Gaining quite a bit of strength, learning to use everything again', Askren said.
Medical staff were able to resuscitate him, but the close calls left no doubt about the seriousness of his condition.
Double Lung Transplant and Ongoing Recovery
After spending 45 days in a medically induced coma, Askren underwent a double lung transplant at the end of June. The procedure was his only chance at survival. During his time in hospital, he lost nearly 50 pounds, reaching his lightest weight since he was 15 years old.
In a heartfelt video shared with fans, Askren admitted the road to recovery will be long. He thanked supporters across the wrestling, MMA and sporting communities for their encouragement and love. The fighter, who is widely respected in combat sports, described the support as overwhelming and emotionally moving.
— Funky 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸 (@Benaskren) July 9, 2025
Community and Financial Support
The cost of the transplant surgery, estimated at around $2 million, was not covered by Askren's insurance. Thankfully, a private donor came forward to cover the cost. His wife, Amy Askren, also launched a fundraising campaign to help with ongoing medical and rehabilitation expenses.
'We are forever thankful to the donor and his family. This is the beginning of a new lifestyle for Ben, but every new day he has is a gift', Amy said on a Facebook post.
The news sparked an outpouring of support from fans, athletes, and media personalities alike. Many took to social media to express admiration for Askren's resilience and send their well wishes for a smooth recovery.
Ben Askren's Career: From Champion to Survivor
Ben Askren's health battle is just the latest chapter in a remarkable life. A two-time NCAA wrestling champion and 2008 Olympian, Askren gained fame in mixed martial arts as a dominant welterweight. He held world titles in both Bellator and ONE Championship before signing with the UFC in 2019.
His UFC tenure included a high-profile and controversial fight with Jorge Masvidal, ending in the fastest knockout in UFC history. Askren retired from MMA later that year and briefly entered the boxing world, facing YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul in 2021.
A Fighter On and Off the Mat
Askren's current battle may be his toughest yet. While he has faced some of the most dangerous fighters in the cage, it is the strength and willpower he has shown in hospital that truly defines him. As the sports world rallies behind him, fans remain hopeful for his continued recovery.
For now, Ben Askren news continues to focus on healing, strength, and an inspiring story of survival. His journey serves as a powerful reminder of just how quickly life can change, and how deep the fighting spirit can run.
