Ben Askren to Compete in Wrestling Match After Near-Fatal Illness

Ben Askren, the former UFC fighter, is preparing to make a remarkable comeback by competing in a wrestling match this Saturday, coinciding with his 42nd birthday. This event marks a significant milestone for Askren, who faced a life-threatening health crisis just a year ago.

Last year, Askren battled a severe staph infection that escalated into pneumonia, necessitating a double lung transplant on June 28, 2025. At one point, he was in a coma for 37 days, losing nearly a third of his body weight and struggling to perform basic functions such as walking and speaking.

The upcoming match will take place in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and will feature Askren going up against former UFC welterweight champion Belal Muhammad. Askren expressed that the experience feels surreal, reflecting on his hospital stay and the challenges he faced just a year prior.

Askren's journey back to health has been documented on social media, where he has shared his recovery process. He noted that the opportunity to wrestle again, especially in his hometown, is a significant moment for him. As he prepares for the match, he emphasizes a changed perspective on life and mortality following his health ordeal.

The wrestling card will also showcase other former UFC fighters, including Colby Covington and Arman Tsarukyan. Askren, who transitioned from wrestling to MMA and retired in 2019, had previously signed with Real American Freestyle (RAF) in May 2025 before his health issues sidelined him. Now, he is eager to return to the mat, viewing this match as a celebration of his recovery.