Fans Worry After Ben Askren’s Pneumonia Hospitalization

MMA fans have come out in droves to express their worry following the news that Ben Askren has been hospitalized with “severe pneumonia.”

Askren’s wife, Amy, made the announcement as the 40-year-old is reportedly not responding to treatment. Askren is one of the most popular fighters to have graced MMA. He secured 12 MMA wins in a row, going on to win titles at welterweight in Bellator and One Championship. Askren also joined the UFC, although he only had three UFC fights.

That consisted of two losses, one of which was the fastest KO loss to Jorge Masvidal. Askren’s only UFC win was his first bout against Robbie Lawler. Askren also made a foray into boxing, losing to Jake Paul in a first-round knockout. Askren’s illness comes amid his recent announcement that he had signed with the wrestling promotion Real American Freestyle. 

“Wrestling community, we need to pray for and rally around @BenAskren who is in critical condition and battling a severe staph infection. He is also battling severe pneumonia, prayers needed,” Amy stated 

“I just finished signing my Real American Freestyle contract. I’ve been waiting to wrestle. I kind of miss competition. I love fighting but I don’t have time for that anymore … I’m going to whip some of these young whippersnappers, show them what the f— it’s all about,” Ben said