Serious Illness Hospitalizes Former MMA Star Ben Askren: ESPN News

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Post on Jun 10, 2025

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Serious Illness Hospitalizes Former MMA Star Ben Askren: ESPN News Reports

Former UFC and ONE Championship welterweight Ben Askren is hospitalized with a serious undisclosed illness, ESPN reports. The news sent shockwaves through the mixed martial arts community, leaving fans and fellow fighters concerned for the health of the popular and respected athlete. While details remain scarce, the severity of the situation is undeniable, prompting widespread speculation and well-wishes across social media.

This unexpected development comes as a surprise to many who remember Askren's formidable career, known for his unorthodox wrestling style and impressive takedown abilities. His retirement from professional MMA fighting in 2020, following a brief but impactful stint in the UFC, left a lasting impression on the sport. Now, this health crisis casts a somber light on the life of a man who dedicated his life to the rigorous demands of professional combat sports.

The Mystery Surrounding Askren's Illness

ESPN's initial report confirmed Askren's hospitalization, but provided few specifics about his condition. This lack of information has fueled speculation on various online forums and social media platforms. Fans are understandably anxious, expressing their concerns and offering support to Askren and his family. The absence of concrete details underscores the need for respect for Askren's privacy during this difficult time.

The silence surrounding the exact nature of his illness emphasizes the importance of respecting the family's wishes for privacy. Many prominent figures within the MMA world have echoed this sentiment, urging fans to refrain from spreading unsubstantiated rumors. Instead, a wave of support and well wishes has emerged, showcasing the strong sense of community within the MMA fanbase.

Askren's Legacy in MMA

Before his illness, Ben Askren’s legacy in MMA was firmly established. He held championships in both ONE Championship and Bellator MMA, showcasing his dominance in the welterweight division. His undefeated amateur wrestling career transitioned seamlessly into a highly successful MMA career, characterized by his relentless pressure and exceptional grappling skills.

• ONE Welterweight World Championship: Askren held this title before transitioning to the UFC.
• Bellator Welterweight World Championship: Askren's tenure here solidified his reputation as a dominant force.
• Undefeated Amateur Wrestling Career: Askren's wrestling background played a significant role in his MMA success.

While his record in the UFC was less than stellar, culminating in a quick knockout loss to Jorge Masvidal, his overall contributions to the sport are undeniable. His contributions to the sport extend beyond his in-cage performance; his outspoken personality and willingness to engage in debate added to his popularity.

What's Next?

As of now, further details regarding Askren's condition are awaited. The MMA community remains united in its hopes for a speedy and complete recovery for the former champion. We urge fans to respect the privacy of Ben Askren and his family during this challenging period. This situation serves as a reminder of the importance of supporting athletes, not just during their triumphs, but also during their struggles. We will update this article as more information becomes available.

Keywords: Ben Askren, MMA, UFC, ONE Championship, hospitalized, illness, ESPN, wrestling, welterweight, mixed martial arts, health, recovery, sports news, fighting.