Former UFC fighter and Olympic wrestler Ben Askren has broken his silence following a life-threatening health battle that led to a double lung transplant. In a heartfelt video posted on social media, Askren detailed the harrowing experience that nearly claimed his life.
Askren, 40, was hospitalized in Wisconsin in early June after developing a severe lung infection caused by staph pneumonia. The condition deteriorated rapidly, forcing doctors to place him on a ventilator and ECMO support to keep him alive. By June 24, he was officially added to the lung transplant waiting list.
His condition became so critical that Askren’s heart stopped four times, flatlining for approximately 20 seconds each time, according to his personal account. He remained in a coma for several days and has no memory from May 28 to July 2.
A suitable donor match became available toward the end of June, and Askren underwent a successful double lung transplant. The former fighter has since been stabilized and is now recovering. His wife, Amy Askren, shared emotional messages during the process and praised the "miracle" of organ donation and medical expertise that saved his life.
In his first public appearance since the surgery, Askren shared an emotional update with fans. He revealed the immense physical toll the experience had on his body, including a 50-pound weight loss, bringing him down to 147 pounds, the lowest he’s weighed since high school.
“I technically died four times,” he said. “I can’t remember anything from May 28 to July 2. It’s been the most intense experience of my life.”
Despite the severity of his condition, Askren remained grateful and optimistic, acknowledging the massive outpouring of love and support from fans, the MMA community, and an anonymous donor who contributed over $500,000 to assist with his medical expenses.
Askren is now focusing on his recovery and gradually regaining strength. Though he still requires regular medical supervision, his goal is to return to coaching wrestling in Wisconsin and continue mentoring young athletes—a passion he’s always held close.
“The support was overwhelming—it was like attending my own funeral, but I got to live through it,” he joked in the video.
Askren’s story has sparked renewed awareness about organ donation and resilience in the face of life-threatening illness.
Ben Askren’s journey—from hospital bed to hopeful recovery—is a reminder of how sudden life can change and how crucial medical intervention and community support can be. His fight outside the octagon may be his toughest yet—but if his spirit is any indication, he’s far from done.
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