Ben Askren Returning to the Ring for a Final Time One Year After Lengthy Hospitalization with ‘Deathly’ Pneumonia (Exclusive)

Former UFC fighter Ben Askren is preparing to step back into the wrestling ring for a single match on July 18, marking a significant return just one year after a life-saving double lung transplant. Askren, now 41, reflects on his journey to recovery, which began under dramatic circumstances following a misunderstanding about his health.

Askren’s health crisis unfolded in May 2025 while he and his wife, Amy, were attending a Bitcoin conference in Las Vegas. Initially, he dismissed what he thought were recurring muscle spasms that he had experienced multiple times throughout his life. However, despite receiving chiropractic adjustments, his condition deteriorated, leading his wife to insist he seek medical attention.

“During the flight to Las Vegas, I was in considerable pain, but just assumed it was a simple spasm,” Askren explained. His reluctance to return to hospital care was met with strong encouragement from Amy, who ultimately convinced him to go back for further evaluation. Despite initial assurances that his vitals were normal, everything changed overnight. That evening, he became increasingly unwell, prompting further hospital visits.

Upon arrival at the hospital, Askren faced a grave diagnosis: necrotising pneumonia, a condition so severe that it jeopardised his life. The severity of his situation led to a lengthy stay in intensive care, where he spent days on a ventilator. “Most people who undergo lung transplants aren’t in the hospital for as long as I was, and I was close to death,” Askren stated candidly.

While Askren lay unconscious, Amy took it upon herself to document his experience through social media updates and journals. Her intention was to provide him with a comprehensive account of the events that transpired during his absence. “I thought I was perfectly fine before everything unfolded. Waking up and reading her journals felt surreal,” he recalled.

After more than a month in hospital, during which Askren had no recollection of events, he faced a new reality. Reading Amy’s journal entries was crucial for understanding the gravity of what he had gone through. “It’s like waking up from a long sleep and discovering a completely extraordinary tale about yourself,” he remarked.

The path to recovery was challenging. For several months post-discharge, Askren struggled with his health, remaining largely isolated while his family continued their daily lives. This solitude provided him with ample time for reflection. During this period of introspection, he discovered a newfound spirituality. “I found solace in the Bible, which significantly helped cultivate my patience and empathy,” he shared.

Now, as he approaches one year since his transplant, Askren looks forward to wrestling one final match, an opportunity that seemed unlikely at the start of his recovery. The date coincides with his birthday, adding an extra layer of significance to the event. “When I found out I could wrestle in Milwaukee on my birthday, I knew I had to make it happen,” he stated.

Askren is eager to demonstrate resilience through his return to the mat. “This match is not just about me; it’s a message to others that perseverance through difficult times is possible. Life has changed for me in many ways, but I have plenty to look forward to,” he noted.

Post-match, Askren intends to focus on his wrestling academy, which he operates alongside his brother and high school coach. Additionally, he looks forward to cherishing his time at home with his family. Despite the challenges ahead, he expresses gratitude for the opportunities in his life. “I may not be the same person I was before this experience, but I’m doing well and feeling optimistic about the future,” he concluded.