Former MMA champion and former UFC welterweight champion Ben Askren is hospitalized due to severe pneumonia, according to his wife via social media on Saturday.
Amy Askren shared the news on Facebook, where she detailed the sudden appearance of the illness. “You may have heard that my husband Ben is going through something,” she wrote. “He developed severe pneumonia that appeared very suddenly. He is currently in the hospital and cannot respond to anything at the moment. We appreciate all prayers for healing and peace.”
Amy requested privacy for her family during this difficult time. The couple has three children and resides in Wisconsin.
Askren, who retired from mixed martial arts in 2019, left a notable legacy in the sport. He was a two-time NCAA Division I wrestling champion and was part of the 2008 United States Olympic team.
Before his time in the UFC, Askren won welterweight titles in Bellator MMA and One Championship. His arrival in the UFC in 2019 generated great anticipation.
In the UFC, Askren had a record of 1-2, including a victory over former champion Robbie Lawler.
