In June 2025, former UFC fighter and Olympic wrestler Ben Askren faced a life-threatening medical emergency. He was hospitalized in Wisconsin with severe pneumonia caused by a staph infection. The infection led to acute lung failure, requiring him to be placed on a ventilator and supported by extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO).
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Critical Condition and Transplant
Askren’s condition worsened over 45 days in intensive care, and on June 24, 2025, he was added to the lung transplant waiting list. He soon underwent a double lung transplant. During the surgery, he reportedly flatlined four times, with his heart stopping for approximately 20 seconds each time. As reported by the Los Angeles Times, Askren described this experience saying, “I only died four times, where the ticker stopped for about 20 seconds.”
Physical Toll
The ordeal left a severe toll on his body. He lost nearly 50 pounds, reaching a weight of just 147 lbs—the lightest he’s been since his teenage years. As People magazine noted, Askren said, “I haven’t been 147 pounds since I was 15.”
He also revealed he had no memory of the 35-day period between May 28 and July 2. He only learned the details of what happened through reading journal entries kept by his wife.
Current Status and Recovery
After 59 days in the hospital, Ben Askren was discharged and is now recovering at home with his family. In a heartfelt video message shared with fans, he stated, “I’m going to work my ass off… I’m going to get better.”
He currently cannot walk without assistance and uses a walker. His physical capabilities are still limited—even lifting a 5-pound weight is difficult, according to Bloody Elbow. However, doctors remain optimistic about his long-term prognosis, saying he can still live a “happy, healthy, full life.”
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Support from the Community
Askren received widespread support from fans and public figures. He expressed gratitude to Dana White and even Jake Paul, a former rival in the boxing ring, for their well-wishes during his recovery.
Summary
- Cause: Severe pneumonia from a staph infection
- Treatment: Ventilator, ECMO, double lung transplant
- Critical Events: Flatlined 4 times; lost memory of 35 days
- Physical Impact: 50 lb weight loss, cannot walk unaided
- Recovery: Discharged after 59 days, recovering at home
- Outlook: Positive long-term prognosis with rehabilitation
Despite enduring one of the most harrowing health battles of his life, Ben Askren remains resilient and focused on regaining his strength. His story stands as a powerful reminder of the human will to survive—and fight back.