Ben Askren Says Prognosis Is Great After Double Lung Transplant Surgery
July 26, 2025
Former UFC fighter and Olympic wrestler Ben Askren has shared an inspiring update on his health, revealing a positive prognosis following a life-saving double lung transplant. The 40-year-old, who battled severe pneumonia stemming from a staph infection, spoke candidly about his recovery in a recent Instagram video, expressing gratitude and determination to return to his active lifestyle.
Askren, a two-time NCAA Division I wrestling champion and Bellator welterweight titleholder, was hospitalized in Wisconsin in early June 2025 after developing critical pneumonia. His condition rapidly deteriorated, requiring a ventilator and ECMO (extracorporeal membrane oxygenation) support. His wife, Amy Askren, kept fans informed through social media, sharing that Ben was placed on the lung transplant list on June 24. Just six days later, on June 30, Amy announced the successful completion of the double lung transplant, calling it “the beginning of a new lifestyle” for her husband.
In his first public statement since the surgery, posted on July 9, Askren revealed the harrowing details of his ordeal, including four instances where his heart stopped for about 20 seconds each time. “I only died four times,” he said with a grin, reflecting on the gravity of his experience. “I don’t remember anything from May 28 to July 2. I read through my wife’s journal—it’s like a movie, it’s ridiculous.” The former MMA star also noted a significant weight loss of 50 pounds in 45 days, bringing him to 147 pounds, a weight he hadn’t seen since he was 15 years old.
Despite the challenges, Askren’s recovery is progressing well. In a recent update, he shared that his prognosis is promising, with doctors optimistic about his body accepting the new lungs. “I’m gaining quite a bit of strength, learning how to use everything again,” he said. A post on X on July 23 confirmed that after 59 grueling days in the hospital, Askren was discharged and is now continuing his recovery at home. His medical team expects him to resume normal activities within three to six months, provided there are no complications like infection or organ rejection.
The outpouring of support from the wrestling and MMA communities has been a significant source of strength for Askren. “It was almost like I got to have my own funeral,” he said, tearfully acknowledging the love and donations that helped cover his medical expenses, including a reported £368,000 contribution through a Help Hope Live crowdfunding campaign. Jake Paul, who faced Askren in a 2021 boxing match, also made a public plea for donations, highlighting the community’s solidarity.
Askren, a father of three and founder of the Askren Wrestling Academy in Wisconsin, remains motivated to give back to the sport that defined his career. “I’m more motivated than ever to keep giving back and do what I can to help out,” he said. His resilience and positive outlook have inspired fans worldwide, with many taking to X to share messages of support, including one user who wrote, “Ben Askren the legend! Hope you’ll feel better, much love from Israel.”
As Askren continues his recovery, his story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of organ donation and the strength of community support. Fans eagerly await further updates, hopeful that the “Funky” fighter will soon return to coaching and inspiring the next generation of athletes.
Sources: Instagram posts by Ben Askren, Facebook updates by Amy Askren, ESPN, CNN, and posts on X.