Ben Askren Update: A Fighter’s Journey Through Health Crisis
From Hospitalization to Hope
On June 7, 2025, former Olympic wrestler and MMA champion Ben Askren was unexpectedly hospitalized after developing severe pneumonia linked to a staph infection. Just days later, his condition deteriorated sharply, prompting his wife Amy to appeal publicly for thoughts and privacy as Ben remained unresponsive and in critical condition.
Former UFC champion Daniel Cormier confirmed Askren had been moved to a Wisconsin hospital—near their home—and remained in a precarious state. Over the days, complications escalated and the decision was made to pursue a double lung transplant—a surgical intervention often viewed as a last resort.
Events in Ben Askren’s Health Battle
| Date | Event | Details |
|---|---|---|
| June 7, 2025 | Hospitalization | Admitted with severe pneumonia and staph infection |
| June 17, 2025 | Ventilator & ICU | Confirmed on ECMO with amy reporting signs of slight improvement |
| June 24, 2025 | Transplant List | Officially added to lung transplant listing |
| June 30, 2025 | Double Lung Transplant | Surgery was successful, per Amy’s update |
| July 9, 2025 | Askren Speaks on Instagram | Describes near-death experiences and a 50-lb weight loss |
A Personal Message From Askren
On July 9, Ben made his first public video update via Instagram. Emotionally raw but humorous in typical “Funky” fashion, he shared that he lost approximately 50 pounds in 45 days, dropping to just 147 lbs—a weight not seen since his teenage years.
In a dramatic revelation, he candidly admitted that his heart stopped around four times, with each stoppage lasting nearly 20 seconds. Just days after waking from his transplant, he read through Amy’s account of the ordeal, which felt surreal—“like watching my own funeral,” he said.
Despite the trauma, Askren’s tone was resolute: “gaining strength… learning to use everything again… more motivated than ever.” Acknowledging the outpouring of love, he gratefully credited the wrestling community as a lifeline: “felt almost like I got to have my own funeral… love from wrestling community was amazing”.
The Community Rallies
1. Family's Plea & Collective Prayers
Amy posted heartfelt messages, first on June 7 asking for prayers, and later on June 24 when Ben was listed for transplant.
2. MMA Legends Speak Out
Henry Cejudo, Chris Weidman, Roxanne Modafferi and others publicly sent support via social media. Daniel Cormier shared personal concern from the “Funky & the Champ” podcast.
3. An $2 Million Surgery & Financial Drive
With insurance disclaimers leaving huge medical debt, the Askren family launched a Help Hope Live crowdfunding campaign. Jake Paul (and Logan) contributed financially and urged fans to support.
4. Fan & Athlete Support
Social media posts went viral. Jake Paul’s prominent appeal, coupled with heartfelt messages from the MMA and wrestling worlds, underscored the collective determination to help Ben survive.
Notable Reactions
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Henry Cejudo: “Pray for Ben Askren”
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Roxanne Modafferi: “Sending good wishes”
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Jake Paul: Donor to family fund, encouraged public support
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Daniel Cormier: Shared updates on health & emotional state
What’s Next: A Path Forward
Ben’s recovery journey is just beginning. The double lung transplant was successful, but rehabilitation after such a major operation will be long and demanding—with full progress expected to take months, even over a year.
Amy expressed hope in sharing further updates once medications are tapered and Ben regains normalcy . Ben's public message underscored a positive mindset, celebrating regained functions and newfound determination.
He’s expected to spend significant time in rehabilitation: physical therapy, pulmonary training, and ongoing medical monitoring to ensure the body fully accepts the new lungs.
Final Thoughts
From elite athlete to fighter for his life, Ben Askren’s story is both heart-wrenching and inspirational. In just five weeks, he went fromwalking and training to fighting for every breath. His survival—and the support that made it possible—highlight the power of community, medical science, and sheer willpower.
His journey reminds us: health can shift in an instant, but together, we can help those we care about reclaim their lives. In his own words: “every new day… is a gift.”
