Ben Askren Shares Emotional Health Update After Double Lung Transplant: “I Only Died Four Times”
Former U.S. Olympic wrestler and UFC fighter Ben Askren broke his silence Wednesday, offering a deeply emotional update on his health journey following a life-threatening medical ordeal.
Askren, 39, revealed he recently underwent a double lung transplant after a severe bout of pneumonia led to a dangerous staph infection. He has been hospitalized in Wisconsin since late May.
In an Instagram video, Askren said he has no memory of what occurred between May 28 and July 2. He learned of the ordeal through a journal kept by his wife, Amy.
“No recollection, zero idea, no idea what happened,” Askren said. “It’s like a movie. It’s ridiculous. I only died four times—where the ticker stopped for about 20 seconds.”
He also disclosed that he lost 50 pounds over 45 days and now weighs 147 pounds, though he’s gradually regaining strength.
Grateful for the overwhelming support, Askren compared the experience to attending his own funeral.
“The outpouring of love from the wrestling community was just amazing,” he said. “It felt so good.”
Who Is Ben Askren?
Askren began his MMA career in 2009 and retired in 2019 with a professional record of 19-2, including six knockouts and six submissions. He held welterweight titles in both Bellator and ONE Championship.
Before MMA, Askren was a decorated collegiate wrestler, winning two NCAA Division I national titles and three Big 12 Conference championships with the University of Missouri. He was a two-time recipient of the prestigious Dan Hodge Trophy, wrestling’s equivalent of the Heisman. He represented Team USA at the 2008 Beijing Olympics.
Askren returned to combat sports in 2021 for a high-profile boxing match, where he was knocked out by YouTuber-turned-fighter Jake Paul in Atlanta.
What’s Next for Askren?
Despite his health scare, Askren remains committed to the sport and community that shaped him.
“I’m more motivated than ever to get back and do what I can to help out the best I can,” he said. “This has been tough—not just for me, but for my entire family. We’ll share more when the time feels right.”
