“Pray for Ben Askren”: MMA and Wrestling Icon Hospitalized with Severe Pneumonia as Sports World Rallies Around Beloved Fighter
WAUWATOSA, WI — The mixed martial arts and wrestling world has been shaken by the sudden and serious hospitalization of one of its most iconic and respected figures, Ben Askren. Known for his Olympic-level wrestling pedigree, his undefeated run in Bellator and ONE Championship, and his unmistakable charisma both inside and outside the cage, Askren is now facing one of the toughest battles of his life — not against an opponent, but against a severe case of pneumonia.
The news broke late Friday night after Ben’s wife, Amy Askren, took to Facebook to share a heartfelt and emotional message about her husband’s condition. In her post, Amy revealed that Ben was admitted to a Wisconsin-area hospital earlier this week after falling ill. What initially seemed like a common respiratory issue quickly escalated into a life-threatening case of pneumonia that required urgent and intensive medical attention.
“Please keep Ben in your prayers,” Amy wrote. “He’s fighting hard, and the doctors are doing everything they can. We’re asking for privacy during this incredibly difficult time, but we also believe in the power of prayer and the strength of community.”
Amy’s message prompted an immediate outpouring of support from fans, fighters, coaches, and sports organizations across the globe. Fellow UFC veterans such as Daniel Cormier, Chael Sonnen, and Jorge Masvidal — who famously knocked Askren out in a record-setting five seconds — all posted messages of support on social media, putting rivalry aside to express their hopes for his recovery.
Askren, 40, retired from MMA in 2020 following a hip replacement surgery, after a brief but memorable run in the UFC. Despite a professional career marked by both triumph and controversy, his contributions to the sport of wrestling and MMA are widely respected. A two-time NCAA Division I champion at the University of Missouri and a 2008 U.S. Olympian, Askren’s unorthodox style, relentless pressure, and quick wit earned him a cult following. Even after retirement, he remained active as a coach, podcast host, and mentor to young athletes, including work at his wrestling academy in Wisconsin.
“Ben is more than a fighter — he’s a pioneer, a teacher, a father, and a friend,” said Tyron Woodley, a former UFC welterweight champion and longtime training partner of Askren. “We’ve bled together on the mats, but now he’s fighting something even tougher. All of us are behind him.”
Hospital officials have not released any further details, but a source close to the family confirmed that Askren is currently in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and is receiving round-the-clock treatment. Though his condition is serious, loved ones remain hopeful, buoyed by the strength of his athletic spirit and the tidal wave of goodwill flooding in from every corner of the fight world.
Social media has been flooded with tributes and messages under the hashtag #PrayForBenAskren. UFC President Dana White issued a brief statement Saturday afternoon: “Ben has always been one of the toughest competitors I’ve ever seen. Everyone at the UFC is wishing him strength and a full recovery. We’re pulling for you, Ben.”
Even Askren’s former opponents have chimed in with supportive words, proving that in moments of crisis, sportsmanship and humanity rise above any lingering animosity. Jake Paul, who boxed Askren in a high-profile match in 2021, tweeted, “Praying for Ben and his family. Wishing him a speedy and strong recovery. Much respect.”
While the fight community watches and waits for further updates, many are using this moment to reflect on Askren’s contributions to combat sports — as an athlete who was never afraid to speak his mind, take risks, and blaze his own trail.
For now, the future remains uncertain, but what is clear is the love, admiration, and unity that Ben Askren has inspired over the years. As his family stays close at his side, and fans around the world send thoughts, prayers, and support, the hope remains that the man who once conquered mats and cages will once again rise and overcome this unexpected battle.
Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.