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Ben Askren provides positive update while recovering from double lung transplant

Originally posted on Bloody Elbow | By Jamie Theodosi | Last updated Jul 19, 2025 6:30 AM ET

After an extremely tough couple of months, former UFC star Ben Askren thankfully seems to be on the road to recovery.

A few months ago, it was shockingly announced that former UFC star Ben Askren was in critical condition after suffering from a severe staph infection.

Unfortunately, things got worse when the Iowa native contracted pneumonia and became unresponsive. It was then revealed that Askren needed a double lung transplant to survive, in what was an extremely emotional situation.

Fortunately, though, Askren received a life-saving double lung transplant with the financial help of Dana White, after his insurance would not cover the surgery, and he is now on the road to recovery.

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Askren shares positive update during his recovery

After months of his wife providing the world with updates, Askren recently provided an emotional update of his own as he lay in a hospital bed following his double transplant.

And now a few weeks removed from his surgery, the former UFC star has taken to social media again to provide another update, as he continues with his road to recovery.

“Yo guys, update number three, it’s going pretty well. I’m starting to put some weight back on but I did have a few set backs, I was really hoping I’d go home today, which is my birthday, but it got pushed back because we had some set backs.

“I had a procedure that didn’t work, but then one that did work, so it took a little longer than I thought. So I was really disappointed this morning… Yes I’m disappointed that I didn’t get out today, but maybe it’s what’s best.

“I did die, and I’m getting better and I’ll see my family soon,” Askren continued in a video on his social media.