Ben Askren Hospitalized with Severe Pneumonia MMA Community Rallies Support
Former UFC fighter and Olympic wrestler Ben Askren has been hospitalized with severe pneumonia after a sudden health decline Family and MMA stars request prayers as fans await updates .
Sudden Onset of Critical Pneumonia
Ben Askren the 40 year old former UFC welterweight contender and Olympic wrestler has been hospitalized with a severe case of pneumonia His condition deteriorated rapidly following what was initially believed to be a staph infection According to his wife Amy Askren the illness came on suddenly and has left him unable to respond to anything at this time She shared the concerning update via Facebook on June 7 expressing deep worry over her husbands current state .
Multiple sources including People NY Post and MMA Fighting confirm that Askren is battling what appears to be an aggressive infection which may have started as a staph infection and progressed into pneumonia The seriousness of the condition prompted immediate hospitalization .
Initial Diagnosis and Infection Pathway
Early reports suggest that the initial infection might have been a serious staph case According to wrestling analyst Pat Mineo Askren is believed to be dealing with both staph and pneumonia although this dual diagnosis has not yet been officially confirmed by medical professionals Sources including Fighters Only TalkSport and Bleacher Report indicate that the condition escalated within a short time raising concerns for the fighters long term health .
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Familys Statement and Privacy Request
Amy Askren has asked for privacy and discretion especially concerning the couples three young children Alex Andy and Ozi Married since 2010 the Askrens live in Wisconsin Amy has requested that supporters refrain from discussing Bens condition with their children to preserve their sense of normalcy during this distressing time .
We welcome all prayers for healing and for peace she stated thanking the public for their understanding and support Her emotional message highlights the gravity of the situation and the uncertainty surrounding Bens recovery .
Widespread Support from the MMA Community
The MMA and wrestling communities have shown overwhelming support for the former champion Fighters such as Henry Cejudo Chael Sonnen and journalist Ariel Helwani have all extended public messages of concern and encouragement Fans across social media platforms have also voiced their admiration and sent well wishes praising Askrens legacy and strength .
Media outlets including BJPenn TalkSport and The Sun have echoed the sentiments of the community emphasizing the shock and sadness that has rippled through the sport .
Legacy in Wrestling and MMA
Askrens athletic résumé is among the most decorated in US amateur and professional wrestling history He was a two time NCAA Division I national champion at the University of Missouri and competed in the 2008 Beijing Olympics In professional MMA he held welterweight titles in both Bellator and ONE Championship boasting a 19–2 record with one no contest across his 22 professional bouts .
In the UFC Askren earned a memorable win over former champion Robbie Lawler before retiring in 2020 .
Controversial Boxing Bout with Jake Paul
In 2021 Askren briefly came out of retirement for a high profile boxing match against social media influencer Jake Paul Though he lost via TKO in the first round the fight garnered massive viewership over 500000 pay per view buys signaling Askrens lasting relevance in the combat sports world .
Future Plans and Wrestling Comeback
Before his recent health scare Askren had announced plans to return to wrestling through the Real American Freestyle promotion co founded by wrestling icon Hulk Hogan He was scheduled to begin competing again in the fall having signed with the organization just weeks before falling ill .
Conclusion
Ben Askrens sudden and severe illness has shaken the MMA and wrestling world While his condition remains critical the outpouring of support from fans and fellow athletes alike reflects the impact he has made on the sport and in the lives of those who followed his journey The world now waits hopeful for his full recovery .