Former UFC fighter and Olympic wrestler Ben Askren is currently hospitalized, facing a serious health issue that may require a lung transplant, as shared by his wife. In a Facebook update on Tuesday, Amy Askren explained that her husband has been in a state of “limbo,” experiencing both good and bad days, which prompted her to provide another update.
“Ben has been in limbo for a while now, so I haven’t posted any updates. I was hoping he would wake up and decide what to share himself…” she expressed on Facebook.
“He’s still working hard between ventilators and healing. Some days are better than others, but they’ve managed to reduce his sedation enough for him to open his eyes and squeeze our hands.” She also reflected on the potential transplant, calling it a blessing and expressing gratitude for the gift. “He will take such good care of it.” Earlier this month, she mentioned that he developed severe pneumonia that struck unexpectedly.
Ben recently signed on with a venture called Authentic American Freestyle, back by Hulk Hogan, aimed at popularizing professional freestyle wrestling. He was a champion in the 170-pound division during his NCAA years in 2006 and 2007, later competing for Team USA in the 2008 Olympics, and winning gold at the 2005 Pan American Championship and the 2009 World Championship.
He transitioned into MMA, making his debut with Bellator in 2010. After competing in various organizations, he joined the UFC, where he faced several notable opponents, including losing to Robbie Lawler and Jorge Masvidal, and even boxed against Jake Paul in 2021.
