Ex-UFC star Ben Askren placed on lung transplant list, wife reveals

Ben Askren Placed on Lung Transplant List After Severe Pneumonia

Former UFC fighter and U.S. Olympic wrestler, Ben Askren, has been placed on the list for a lung transplant following a battle with severe pneumonia that led to him being put on a ventilator. The 40-year-old athlete, known for being the most decorated wrestler in the history of the University of Missouri, was admitted to a hospital in Wisconsin earlier this month.

His wife, Amy, took to Facebook to share the news with their followers, revealing that Ben was officially on the transplant list. She requested prayers for his strength, stability, and for a successful match to be found soon. She expressed gratitude for the support and well-wishes they have received during this challenging time.

Askren’s health complications began with a staph infection that progressed to pneumonia. Despite the challenges, his wife shared that he has shown moments of awareness and they are hopeful for his recovery. She mentioned that he even tried to communicate his desire for coffee, a sign of normalcy that brought relief to the family.

Throughout his career, Ben Askren represented the United States in the 2008 Beijing Olympics before transitioning to a successful mixed martial arts career with Bellator MMA and ONE Championship. In 2018, he made a move to the UFC as part of a trade deal involving Demetrious Johnson.

Following his retirement with a record of 19-2, Askren underwent surgery after his final UFC fight against Demian Maia in October 2019. His contributions to wrestling and mixed martial arts have left a lasting impact on the sports community, and fans are rallying behind him during this difficult time.