Former wrestling champion and MMA fighter Ben Askren underwent a life-saving double lung transplant after severe illness, expressing gratitude for community support while sharing his remarkable recovery journey.

Ben Askren's recent double lung transplant follows a harrowing battle with pneumonia and a staph infection that led to significant weight loss and multiple near-death experiences. His experience, during which he lost 50 pounds in 45 days and couldn't recall over a month, emphasizes the critical role of community support in recovery. Askren's gratitude for the wrestling community's help during his ordeal illustrates not only the personal impact of resilience in the face of health crises but also the broader importance of solidarity in overcoming life-altering challenges.

Askren's health crisis began in late May 2025, when he started showing symptoms of pneumonia that rapidly escalated. The infection, compounded by a staph infection, put his life in serious jeopardy. Between May 28 and July 2, Askren has no recollection of events, a gap he pieced together using his wife's journal entries, which documented his journey through the illness.

In a candid statement about his experience, Askren mentioned, 'I only died four times,' referring to the moments when his heart rate stopped for approximately 20 seconds each time. This stark account highlights the severity of his medical complications and the dangerous nature of his condition, marking a turning point in both his health and life perspective.

The impact of his illness was visibly profound, as Askren lost an astonishing 50 pounds in just 45 days. Weighing now 147 pounds, he shared that regaining his health would be a gradual process, emphasizing the importance of patience and perseverance in returning to a normal lifestyle.

Throughout this challenging period, Askren expressed overwhelming appreciation for the support he received. 'I've received so much love from the wrestling community and beyond,' he said, demonstrating how collective encouragement plays a critical role in the healing process. This support not only bolstered his spirits but also emphasized the tight-knit connections formed within athletic communities.

Amy Askren, Ben's wife, has been instrumental during his recovery. She documented his progress and challenges, providing updates to friends, fans, and family during the crisis. Her efforts in advocating for Ben underscore the emotional and practical support systems that families often rely on in times of medical emergency.

The successful transplant has led Ben Askren to re-evaluate his focus and aspirations moving forward. He has voiced a strong desire to give back to the community and the fight world that has supported him throughout his career. This newfound motivation symbolizes a turning point, not just in physical health but in a broader commitment to advocacy and support for others facing similar battles.

Ben Askren is well-known in the sports industry, having competed as a member of the 2008 U.S. wrestling team at the Beijing Olympics. He also boasts a distinguished college career, clinching NCAA championships and later making a successful transition to mixed martial arts. Since beginning his MMA career in 2009, Askren held an impressive record of 19-2 and garnered titles in notable promotions such as Bellator and ONE Championship.

His venture into the UFC was brief, culminating in retirement from the organization in 2019. However, Askren's notoriety continued to grow beyond MMA, including his participation in a high-profile boxing match against Jake Paul in April 2021. Despite a loss via knockout in that event, his resilience remained evident, embodying the spirit of a fighter.

In his recovery journey post-transplant, Askren aims to channel his experiences into a platform for advocacy and support, seeking to inspire others who are grappling with health challenges. His determination to bounce back as a leader in both wrestling and MMA illustrates his enduring commitment to his communities and the values they represent.