Former UFC Fighter Ben Askren Hospitalized with Severe Pneumonia, Unresponsive

Ben Askren, a former MMA fighter and two-time NCAA wrestling champion, is currently hospitalized in critical condition with severe pneumonia and a staph infection, as confirmed by his wife Amy Askren on social media. The illness came on suddenly, rendering him unresponsive and unable to communicate, prompting an outpouring of prayers and support from the MMA community and fans. The staph infection, common among MMA fighters due to training conditions, likely contributed to his severe pneumonia and rapid health decline. Askren, who competed in the 2008 Olympics and fought in Bellator, ONE Championship, and UFC before retiring in 2019, is now focused on recovery while his family tries to maintain normalcy for their children. Prominent MMA figures have publicly sent their well wishes during this critical time. Updates from his family are anticipated as they navigate this difficult situation.