Ben Askren's wife, Amy, has provided an encouraging update after the former UFC fighter underwent a double lung transplant this week. The 40-year-old, who retired from combat sports in 2021, faced a severe health crisis earlier this month when he was diagnosed with pneumonia.
On 7 June, Amy posted on Facebook asking for prayers as Ben suffered from 'severe pneumonia'. By 17 June, she revealed that doctors were evaluating him for a lung transplant. Despite initial reports that his insurance might not cover the procedure, Amy confirmed on Monday that the transplant had taken place.
'We are forever thankful to the donor and his family,' Amy wrote. 'This is the beginning of a new lifestyle for Ben, but every new day he has is a gift. It still doesn't feel real that he was walking around completely healthy just 5 weeks ago.'
Askren, a former Olympic wrestler, enjoyed a successful MMA career, winning Bellator and ONE welterweight titles. He fought three times in the UFC in 2019, submitting Robbie Lawler before losses to Jorge Masvidal and Demian Maia. He later boxed Jake Paul in 2021, losing by first-round knockout.
Amy asked for continued prayers as Ben's body adjusts to the new lungs, adding that she hopes he will provide his own update once the medication wears off.
