The MMA sphere is rallying behind Ben Askren as the former UFC veteran is battling a severe medical issue. It started with whispers. A post from The Wrestling Room on X lit up social media with an alarming message as it revealed that the wrestling icon was in critical condition. At first, it was said to be a staph infection, but soon after, things became clearer and far more serious.
Now, Askren’s wife, Amy Askren, has come out with a heartfelt message on Facebook. Her words weren’t just an update; they were a plea as she wrote, “You may have heard that my husband Ben is going through something. He developed severe pneumonia which came on very suddenly. He’s currently in the hospital and unable to respond to anything at this time.”
But it wasn’t just about Ben’s health. Amy was also trying to protect their children from the wave of worry that was about to follow. She continued, “We welcome all prayers for healing and for peace. We are trying to keep life as normal as possible for our children currently and doing our best to support them thoughtfully, so please refrain from discussing it with them for now.”
Her words cut through the noise. This wasn’t just a headline, it was a family battling through a monumental hurdle. The wrestling and MMA world responded quickly. Chael Sonnen, a long-time friend and former UFC fighter, echoed the seriousness of the situation. “Ben is alive and prayers are wanted. Family choosing privacy at this time,” he posted on X.
Wrestling community, we need to pray for and rally around @BenAskren who is in critical condition and battling a severe staph infection.
— The Wrestling Room (Pat Mineo) (@MrPatMineo) June 8, 2025
For fans who followed Ben Askren’s career from college wrestling mats to the Octagon and even into his short boxing stint against Jake Paul, this news hits hard. Askren, just 40, had remained a visible and inspiring figure in wrestling. Recently, he even joined Hulk Hogan’s Real American Freestyle project, mentoring young athletes.
(More to follow…)
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