2025-07-09T23:48:45Z

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In a heartfelt update shared via Instagram on Wednesday, former UFC star Ben Askren opened up about his recent health struggles following a double lung transplant necessitated by severe pneumonia. The former mixed martial artist, who has had a storied career, revealed that the past few months have been particularly harrowing, recounting a period during which he experienced significant health complications, including moments where he was clinically dead.

Askren revealed that he does not have any recollection from the end of May to the beginning of July, a time marked by critical health issues. He described a terrifying experience where he "died four times," with his heart stopping for a considerable 20 seconds. Such alarming accounts underline the severity of his condition, which caused him to lose weight dramatically, dropping to just 147 pounds—the lightest he’s been since his teenage years.

Despite these challenges, Askren was able to share some positive news about his recovery. He expressed gratitude for the growing strength he has been experiencing since undergoing surgery, indicating that his road to recovery is on an upward trajectory.

One of the most poignant aspects of his message was the immense support he received from fans and the wrestling community during this difficult time. Askren reflected on this outpouring of affection, saying, "The thing that was most impactful to me was all the love I felt from everybody. It's almost like I got to have my own funeral… The outpouring of love from the wrestling community was truly just amazing. It felt so good. I'm more motivated than ever to get back and to do what I can." His determination to re-engage with his athletic endeavors is an inspiring sign of resilience.

His harrowing health journey began to unfold publicly when his wife disclosed on June 7 that he had been hospitalized due to severe pneumonia and was in a state where he was unable to respond to any stimuli. By June 17, his condition had worsened, leading to him being placed on a ventilator and ECMO (extracorporeal membrane oxygenation) as doctors prepared him for a lung transplant. Fortunately, Askren underwent the much-needed double lung transplant at the end of June and is now dedicated to his recovery process.

Askren’s achievements in the wrestling and MMA worlds are significant. He was a back-to-back national champion at the University of Missouri and holds a professional MMA record of 19-2, having claimed the Bellator Welterweight World Championship in 2010 and the ONE Welterweight Championship in 2014. His journey in the sport has been characterized by not only his skill but also his tenacity and competitive spirit.