In a moment that resonated across the combat sports world, former UFC fighter Ben Askren recently shared a candid and emotional update from his hospital bed, revealing the harrowing details of a severe health crisis that has kept him sidelined and fighting for his life.
Speaking publicly for the first time about his ordeal, Askren described a period of disorientation and near-death experiences. He starkly recounted losing consciousness and, with a touch of dark humor characteristic of fighters facing adversity, noted that he “died four times” during the acute phase – a blunt, technical term likely referring to critical system failures that required resuscitation. This period, he admitted, is a blur, with no recollection of the events that transpired during the peak of his medical emergency.
His presence in the hospital follows news of a critical double lung transplant needed due to a severe, undisclosed condition. Weeks prior, his wife, Amy Askren, had kept the public informed through social media updates, detailing the gravity of the situation and the unexpected financial burden when the complex procedure wasn`t fully covered by health insurance. Her updates highlighted the immense support required and the relief when a private donor generously stepped forward to cover the significant costs associated with the life-saving transplant.
Amidst this serious health battle, the outpouring of support from fellow fighters, fans, and even former rivals has been a significant aspect of the story. Perhaps most unexpectedly, Jake Paul, the YouTube personality turned professional boxer who famously knocked Askren out in a 2021 boxing match, has been a vocal proponent of support. Paul had publicly stated his intention to make a financial donation to aid Askren`s family and used his large digital platform to raise awareness.
Reacting to Askren`s latest video update, Paul took to social media platform X, writing a short, impactful statement:
Shout out to Ben Askren. Just proved that he’s one of the toughest fighters of all time.
It`s a sentiment delivered from an unlikely source given their competitive history, yet one that underscores a moment of shared humanity overriding past competition. While perhaps framed with a hint of the “Problem Child`s” characteristic digital swagger, the message of respect for Askren`s resilience in the face of a medical battle is clear.
Figures within the traditional combat sports community, like former two-division UFC champion Daniel Cormier and popular commentator Joe Rogan, also offered public messages of encouragement, reflecting the widespread respect Askren holds among peers and fans despite his polarizing style at times. While the road to full recovery is undoubtedly long and challenging, Askren`s ability to share his story, even in such a vulnerable state, signals positive progress. His wife`s earlier updates confirmed his status was moving in the “right direction,” and his public appearance, though emotional, reinforces that hope for his continued healing.
