Ben Askren’s Struggle Beyond the Octagon

For former UFC fighter Ben Askren, one of his toughest challenges wasn’t in the octagon but rather on a hospital bed. He faced a life-threatening situation after suffering from double lung failure due to severe pneumonia. Upon awakening from a medically induced coma, Askren found himself drawn to faith.

At 41, Askren is recognized not just as a professional mixed martial artist but also as a boxer and Olympic wrestler.

“I woke up and I just decided I was a Christian.”

In June, he was in critical condition from severe pneumonia and was placed on a ventilator. After undergoing a double lung transplant, Askren unfortunately lost 50 pounds in just 45 days, a clear indicator of his dire state.

When he emerged from the coma, he felt a significant shift regarding his beliefs. In a recent interview, he shared that becoming a Christian was an unexpected result of his experience.

Reflecting on his past, Askren mentioned that despite attending church with his wife for 15 years, he never truly felt a pull toward faith. “It was part of the transaction, so I went to church with my wife for 15 years. I said, ‘Well, I’m not a Christian, but I’ll support you.’ And when I woke up, it was a strange feeling, like I had to do it, you know?”

He reiterated, “I woke up and just decided I was a Christian. That’s crazy,” revealing that he believed he had crossed over to the “other side” before finding faith.

Throughout his hospitalization, there were moments when it was thought that he had passed away. “They thought I was dead many times. It felt like I died,” Askren recounted.

He had previously mentioned a loss of memory during his ordeal, stating, “I don’t remember anything from May 28th to July 2nd. I just read my wife’s diary, and it’s like a movie; it’s ridiculous. I’ve only died four times. My heart had stopped for about 20 seconds.”

Askren expressed gratitude toward those who supported him during his health crisis. “I’m really thankful to everyone who helped me,” he stated.

On social media, he acknowledged his wife for her remarkable support over the past two and a half months during this challenging time.

UFC President Dana White has also provided financial help, and Jake Paul, the YouTuber-turned-boxer, donated $500,000 towards Askren’s double lung transplant, which reportedly cost around $2 million and was not covered by insurance. It’s worth noting that Askren faced Paul in a boxing match back in April 2021, which he lost in the first round.

In July, Askren mentioned his desire to give back, stating, “I love you guys and I am grateful to you to do what I can to help you in everything I can.”

Though walking post-surgery has been difficult, he is slowly making progress in his rehabilitation.

With a history of accomplishments, including a successful MMA record of 19-2-1 and multiple NCAA titles, Askren represented Team USA at the 2008 Summer Olympics.