Ben Askren Hospitalized with Severe Pneumonia

Ben Askren, the former mixed martial arts fighter known for competing in the Olympics and the UFC, is currently in the hospital due to a serious illness, as announced by his wife, Amy Askren, on social media.

Amy shared on Facebook that her husband developed sudden and severe pneumonia. “He is currently hospitalized and unable to respond,” she mentioned. She expressed appreciation for prayers and support, emphasizing the need for privacy regarding their children during this challenging time.

Recently, Askren joined Real American Freestyle, a venture started by Hulk Hogan aimed at promoting professional freestyle wrestling.

At 40, Askren achieved significant success in his early sports career, becoming an NCAA champion in the 170-pound weight class in 2006 and 2007, and later represented Team USA in the 2008 Olympics. He also earned gold medals at the 2005 Pan American Championship and the 2009 World Championship.

He transitioned to mixed martial arts in 2010 with Bellator and went on to compete in various organizations, including the UFC. As for his fights, Askren faced Robbie Lawler at UFC 235 and later met Jorge Masvidal in a notable bout. In 2021, he fought Jake Paul in a boxing match.