Ben Askren, the former UFC star and Olympic wrestler, has been hospitalized with a serious case of pneumonia. The news broke after his wife, Amy Askren, shared an emotional update on social media on June 7, 2025.
Many fans were left shocked, especially as false rumors of a car accident spread online. But now, we have the facts — and the support from the MMA community is pouring in.
Let’s take a closer look at what’s happening, clear up the misinformation, and explain why this story matters.
Amy Askren took to Facebook on June 7 to share that her husband had been admitted to the hospital. According to her post, Ben developed a very sudden and severe case of pneumonia.
She wrote that he is unresponsive to treatment, and that doctors are doing everything they can. The tone of her message was somber but hopeful.
Amy asked fans, friends, and fellow athletes to pray for Ben’s recovery. It’s clear this isn’t just a routine illness — it's a medical emergency.
Shortly after the news of Ben’s condition was released, social media began flooding with speculation. Many people searched for “Ben Askren accident” or assumed he had been injured in a crash.
However, that is completely false.
There is no report of Ben being involved in any kind of car accident. Several MMA insiders and news outlets have confirmed that his condition is due to pneumonia, not any traumatic incident.
In fact, this rumor likely spread from misinterpreted Reddit posts or clickbait headlines. The Askren family has made it clear: his illness is sudden and medical, not injury-related.
Some sources, including MMA journalist Pat Mineo, have speculated that Ben might be dealing with a serious staph infection that turned into pneumonia. But this has not been officially confirmed by his family or medical team.
Right now, the only confirmed detail is that Ben Askren is battling severe pneumonia and is unresponsive.
Until more information is shared by Amy or doctors, it’s best not to jump to conclusions.
The MMA world has rallied behind Ben Askren.
Former UFC star Chael Sonnen posted a heartfelt message on X (formerly Twitter), saying:
“Ben is alive and prayers are wanted. Family choosing privacy at this time.”
Other stars, including Henry Cejudo, Daniel Cormier, and MMA journalist Ariel Helwani, have echoed those sentiments. Support is coming from fans all over the world.
It’s no surprise. Ben Askren is one of the most recognizable and respected names in the sport — both for his performance and his personality.
For those who may not follow MMA closely, here’s a quick refresher.
Ben Askren is a retired American mixed martial artist, former Bellator and ONE Welterweight Champion, and Olympic wrestler. He gained massive popularity not just for his skills but also for his outspoken and witty personality.
In 2021, he made headlines again when he fought Jake Paul in a widely publicized boxing match. Though he lost, the event boosted his fame beyond the MMA world.
Askren retired from competition but remained active in coaching, podcasting, and mentoring young fighters. He’s also known for being a devoted family man and often posts funny, heartfelt content with his wife and children.
This situation is also a powerful reminder: even elite athletes can face serious health issues.
Ben has always been seen as strong, durable, and tough. But pneumonia — especially a severe or treatment-resistant kind — can affect anyone. It’s a silent but dangerous condition that can become life-threatening in hours.
Let’s hope his body responds to treatment soon and that he’s back to joking and coaching in no time.
In times like this, speculation can do more harm than good. What the Askren family needs right now is privacy, respect, and support.
Spreading false stories or guessing about his condition doesn't help. Instead, fans and media alike are encouraged to share messages of hope and avoid clicking on unverified posts.
If you're a fan of Ben, this is the time to send your positive thoughts, prayers, or a kind message. Small acts of kindness matter more than ever.
Ben Askren is currently hospitalized and battling severe pneumonia. There is no evidence of a car accident, and staph infection remains an unconfirmed theory.
What we do know is this: he's surrounded by family, love, and the prayers of an entire fighting community.
Let’s all hope that “Funky” Ben makes a full recovery and returns home soon.
We’ll continue to follow the story and share updates as they come in from trusted sources.
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