Ben Askren: Comebacks, Challenges, and Champion Spirit
Few athletes in combat sports have the charisma, wit, and toughness that Ben Askren brings to the table. A former Olympic wrestler, MMA champion, and UFC star, Askren’s journey has been anything but ordinary. Whether it’s inside the cage, in a Twitter war, or battling back from injury, Ben Askren continues to prove that he’s built differently.
The Challenge of Recovery: Ben Askren’s Personal Update
“I’m gonna work my ass off and get better”
Ben Askren is a fighter’s fighter. Praying for his recovery to continue going well 👏👏👏 https://t.co/G9ZMa4bcag
— Ben Davis (@BenTheBaneDavis) July 26, 2025
In a recent video update, Ben Askren opened up about his recovery journey after a major health setback. Once capable of performing hill sprints and curling 45-pound weights with ease, Askren now finds himself struggling to curl even 5 pounds. Despite the daunting road ahead, he remains optimistic and determined to rebuild his strength:
“I’m going to work my ass off. I’m going to get better. So why can’t you too?”
This candid message was a rallying cry to fans, especially those hesitant to begin their own health or fitness journeys. Askren emphasized that it’s not where you start that matters—it’s where you’re headed. If he can get moving again with a walker, there’s no excuse for others not to start.
From Olympian to Bare Knuckle Supporter
Ben Askren’s influence doesn’t stop with MMA. In the video, he shared excitement about a signed poster from the first BKFC (Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship) Champions Summit. Askren praised the athletes who have made bare knuckle fighting the fastest-growing sport in the world and offered to give away the signed poster to a dedicated fan.
“These guys made Bare Knuckle what it is. I want to give this poster to someone who really loves the sport.”
It’s clear that Ben still deeply respects fighters and the fight game, even after stepping away from active competition. His gesture is a reminder that he’s still involved in promoting and supporting combat sports in meaningful ways.
Tensions, Trash Talk, and Handshake Bets
No story about Ben Askren would be complete without a little drama and humor. In the same clip, he discusses a handshake bet worth $500,000 with a fellow fighter. In true Askren fashion, the conversation blends banter, confidence, and competitive fire:
“If I lose, I’ll give him $500,000. If I win, he’s giving me $500,000. Let’s shake hands and go.”
This type of interaction is what made Askren a fan favorite—not just for his skills but for his personality. Whether hyping a fight or keeping things lighthearted, Ben’s style is unmistakable.
A Fighter’s Mindset: What We Can Learn from Ben Askren
BREAKING: Ben Askren has been released from the hospital 59 days after severe pneumonia forced him into a coma & eventually led to a double lung transplant.
Askren will now go through a rigorous rehabilitation process where he will re-learn how to walk
Get well soon, Ben! 🙏 pic.twitter.com/Xb5Y62tYNA
— Combat Buzz (@CombatBuzzX) July 22, 2025
Even after retirement, Ben Askren’s mental resilience stands out. His message in the video wasn’t just about physical recovery—it was a motivational speech for anyone facing life’s setbacks. He acknowledges how far he’s fallen physically but refuses to let that define him. His mindset offers a powerful lesson:
Start where you are, not where you wish you were.
Progress is possible, even when the odds seem stacked.
Being down doesn’t mean you’re out.
These are valuable takeaways not just for athletes but for anyone going through hard times.
Final Thoughts: Ben Askren Still Inspires
Ben Askren might be out of the octagon, but he’s far from done inspiring people. From offering heartfelt advice and motivational insight to supporting new generations of fighters, his journey continues to evolve. Whether you’re a fan of his wrestling career, his MMA battles, or his post-fight transparency, one thing is clear:
Ben Askren is still fighting—just a different kind of battle now.
