Ben Askren, nicknamed “funky,” is a multifaceted combat sports figure whose career spans elite amateur wrestling, championship‑level mixed martial arts and a brief foray into boxing. Born in 1984 in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Askren rose to prominence through dominant wrestling performances before evolving into one of the most recognized personalities in MMA. His journey has been defined by athletic prowess, outspoken personality, unexpected setbacks and recently a harrowing health battle.
from wrestling dominance to international acclaim
Askren’s athletic roots were firmly planted in collegiate wrestling at the University of Missouri. He finished with an impressive 153‑8 record, earning two NCAA titles and multiple All‑American honors. Known for his top control and pinning ability, he ranked among the most formidable folk‑style wrestlers of his generation. He even represented the United States at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, reaching the quarterfinal round before being eliminated. His wrestling résumé also includes medals at Pan American and world competitions, cementing his status as an elite grappler.
transition to mixed martial arts
In 2009, Askren embraced a new challenge: mixed martial arts. He debuted with a quick TKO victory and proceeded to build momentum by blending his wrestling with developing striking and submissions. Training at reputable gyms like roufusport in the usa and later evolve mma in singapore, he evolved into a complete fighter with an unrelenting style
His rise was meteoric. He captured the bellator welterweight title and defended it four times without defeat. After moving to one championship, he secured their welterweight world title and defended it three times, including a memorable under‑one‑minute tko over shinya aoki. His professional record vaulted to an undefeated 18‑0 before he vacated the title and transitioned to the ufc in late 2018.
ufc chapter and crossover boxing
Askren’s ufc tenure was short but impactful. He debuted impressively with a submission victory over robbie lawler. However, his next two fights resulted in tough losses: a legendary five‑second flying knee knockout to jorge masvidal and a submission defeat to demian maia. These setbacks contributed to his retirement announcement in 2019.
Seeking a final highlight, he entered the boxing ring in 2021 to face jake paul. The experiment ended in a first‑round loss, another unexpected twist in a career full of surprises.
life after the cage
Retirement did not mean inactivity. Askren co‑founded the askren wrestling academy with his brother, expanding it across multiple locations. He became a coach, mentor, podcaster and sometimes commentator, remaining a visible voice in combat sports. He also wrote a memoir titled funky: my defiant path through the world of combat sports, sharing candid reflections and personal insights.
In interviews, he has emphasized that mma is not a financially prosperous career, warning younger athletes about its difficulties. He has noted how an appearance in the ufc might only yield modest earnings after expenses. His blunt honesty is typical of his style.
recent health challenges and recovery
In mid‑2025, askren faced his toughest fight yet: a life‑threatening pneumonia stemming from a staph infection. His health deteriorated rapidly, landing him on a ventilator and ecmo machine. He spent approximately 45 days hospitalized, and suffered a double lung transplant. During that period, his heart stopped multiple times, and he lost over fifty pounds—dropping to roughly 147 pounds. Through it all, he received overwhelming support from his wife, children, the mma community and even dana white.
Askren recently shared that he “died four times” and has no memory of the worst of his ordeal. Relying on his wife’s journal to piece together events, he expressed gratitude to his donor and supporters. Though his recovery will take time, he is determined to return to coaching young wrestlers and rebuilding his health.
legacy and what lies ahead
Askren’s legacy is multifaceted. On the mat, he is remembered as one of the most accomplished wrestlers of his era. In mma, he made history as the only fighter to claim both bellator and one championship welterweight titles. He also created some of the sport’s most talked‑about moments through confidence, rivalries, and an unorthodox style that captivated audiences.
He shaped the narrative of modern mma: gritty, entertaining, intensely self‑aware and full of surprises. His outspoken nature often drew attention, but he also endeared himself by admitting failures and offering mentorship.
With his health crisis unfolding, askren has turned toward survival, recovery and reflection. He remains committed to coaching, anchoring his post‑fighting identity in helping the next generation. While his path ahead is uncertain, his resilience and candor suggest he will bravely embrace whatever comes next.
Comments are closed