Jake Paul Praises Ben Askren After Health Scare

Jake Paul has recently showered praise on his former opponent, Ben Askren, describing him as “one of the toughest fighters of all time.” This comes after Askren faced a serious health crisis due to pneumonia.

In a health update shared on Wednesday, Askren revealed that he had “died four times” before receiving a double lung transplant. Paul took to social media to express his admiration for Askren’s resilience.

“Shoutout to Ben Askren,” Paul wrote, asserting that this situation proves Askren’s toughness in the world of fighting.

Paul originally defeated Askren in a highly-publicized boxing match back in April 2021.

Now 40, Askren commented publicly for the first time since being hospitalized with pneumonia in late June. His wife, Amy, has been updating fans about his condition throughout this ordeal.

“It’s like a movie. It’s crazy,” Askren mentioned in an Instagram video. “I technically died four times when my heart stopped for about 20 seconds. Not exactly ideal, you know? But I managed to get a double lung transplant.”

During his health struggle, Askren lost around 50 pounds in just 45 days, and now weighs about 147 pounds.

Amy, who has been married to Askren since 2010, shared that the transplant procedure was successful, and Askren expressed renewed motivation in his recovery process.

“I’m more driven than ever. I’m doing everything I can to stay active,” he said in the video. “I appreciate all the love and support. This has been a positive change for my family and my community. Thank you all for keeping me updated.”

Askren had an impressive MMA record of 19-2, capturing the One Championship welterweight title in 2014 and the Bellator Welterweight Championship in 2010 before eventually joining the UFC. He finished with a 1-2 record in that promotion.

Before their fight, UFC President Dana White had speculated that Askren believed he could defeat Paul in a boxing match. Ultimately, Paul secured victory over Askren early in the bout.