Former UFC fighter Ben Askren has taken his first big step towards recovery after being released from the hospital following a long and difficult battle with pneumonia.
His condition became so serious that he needed a double-lung transplant to survive. Now, after nearly two months in the hospital, Askren is finally heading home, but his recovery is far from over.
A Scary Health Battle That Nearly Took His Life
Askren, 40, shared an emotional video update from his car, with his wife Amy driving him home. He revealed that he lost nearly 50 pounds during his hospital stay and admitted that at times, he was dangerously close to death.
“I’m out, with my beautiful wife. It was a long journey, and it’s not over yet. I still can’t really walk properly,” Askren said. He added that he doesn’t remember 35 days of the experience, including the time around his surgery, which took place about three weeks ago.
When Askren asked Amy how close he came to dying, she replied with a heavy pause, “Too close. A few times.”
He Died Four Times – But Kept Fighting
In an earlier video, Askren shared more shocking details. He said he “died” four times during the ordeal, with his heart stopping for about 20 seconds each time. Still, thanks to the double-lung transplant and support from doctors, family, and friends, he survived.
He thanked everyone who supported him – whether it was through kind messages, donations, or helping his family. “The love and support meant so much. I hope I never go through anything like that again,” he said. “But I’m planning to live for a long time now.”
From MMA to a New Chapter in Life
Ben Askren has been a familiar name in combat sports for nearly two decades. He was an NCAA wrestling champion in 2006 and 2007 and even represented the USA at the 2008 Olympics. He later won gold at the Pan American Championships and the World Championships before moving into mixed martial arts.
Askren made his MMA debut with Bellator in 2010, later competing in ONE Championship and eventually the UFC. He famously submitted Robbie Lawler in UFC 235 but suffered a historic knockout loss to Jorge Masvidal. In 2021, he also fought YouTuber Jake Paul in a boxing match and lost in the first round.
Recently, before his health crisis, Askren signed with Real American Freestyle – a new wrestling venture backed by Hulk Hogan. The organization hopes to bring professional freestyle wrestling into the spotlight, and Askren was set to play a key role.
A Long Road Ahead for Askren
Although Askren has left the hospital, his recovery is ongoing. He is currently relearning how to walk and rebuild strength. At one point, he weighed just 147 pounds – something he hadn’t seen since his teenage years.
Even though the past two months were incredibly difficult, Askren remains positive and thankful. He’s determined to keep fighting – this time, not in the ring, but for his health and future.
Ben Askren’s story is one of survival, strength, and support. After facing a near-death experience and undergoing a double-lung transplant, the former fighter is now on the path to recovery. With love from his family, fans, and friends, Askren is learning to walk again and is hopeful for the future.
His journey is a reminder of how tough life can be, but also how powerful the human spirit truly is when surrounded by support and determination.
