“I Only Died 4 Times” – Joe Rogan Joins MMA Community to Wish Ben Askren after Lung Transplant

Ben Askren finally opens up about his lung transplantation surgery after being unresponsive for nearly two months.

“I Only Died 4 Times” – Joe Rogan Joins MMA Community to Wish Ben Askren after Lung Transplant

Ben Askren gives health updates following his surgery (via Instagram)

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The MMA community united in support after veteran Ben Askren battled life-threatening pneumonia that nearly took his life unexpectedly. Askren underwent an intense double lung transplant surgery, which ultimately saved his life after weeks of critical care in the hospital. Amid widespread online rumors of his death, Askren recently posted an emotional video update to reassure fans and supporters.

In mid-2025, former UFC fighter Askren faced a terrifying health battle after contracting a severe staph infection. What began as flu-like symptoms rapidly escalated, and by June, he was hospitalized and placed on a ventilator. With the help of an anonymous donor, the fighter finally went through the surgery and recently shared a video on his Instagram account.

I haven’t given you an update in a while. I figure you deserve one. I actually just read through my wife’s journal because I don’t remember anything from May 28 to July 2. No recollection, zero idea, no idea what happened. We’ll kind of go through it all. I just read through my wife’s journal. It’s like a movie. It’s ridiculous. So, I only died four times where the ticker stopped for about 20 seconds. That’s not ideal.

Ben Askren via Instagram

Following his life-threatening condition, several UFC fighters and MMA veterans expressed their support publicly. The situation worsened when it was revealed that Askren’s insurance didn’t cover the costly treatment. This sparked concern across the MMA community. Big names like Andrew Tate and Jake Paul spoke about donating and urged fans on social media to step up and help.

The overwhelming outpouring of love and compassion from the MMA world left Askren emotional, calling the experience humbling and surreal. He described it as watching his own funeral unfold, receiving support, prayers, and love while still alive and fighting hard. Askren’s story became a symbol of unity in MMA, showing how athletes come together beyond competition during life-threatening moments.

But, I got the double lung transplant and made it to the other side of it. Gaining quite a bit of strength. Learning to use everything again, I was actually on a scale yesterday and 147 pounds. I haven’t been 147 pounds since 15 years old. So, I lost like 50 pounds in a 45-day period. Man, that was a battle. Other than that, I don’t remember most of it.

Ben Askren Continued.

The Olympic wrestler later vowed to use his second chance at life to give back, raise awareness, and inspire future generations with strength. The fighter explained how it has been hard for him as well as his family, but now he is motivated. Big names from UFC, such as Joe Rogan, Alexander Volkanovski, and Stephen Thompson commented under the post to show their compassion.

Fight fans react to Ben Askren’s latest updates after lung transplant

The 40-year-old Ben Askren started his UFC career with an impressive 19-0 record, dominating early in multiple organizations worldwide. He held welterweight titles in both Bellator MMA and ONE Championship, showcasing elite grappling skills and an unorthodox but effective fighting style.

Ben Askren goes viral for his latest video message
Ben Askren goes viral for his latest video message (via X)

Before MMA, Askren had a decorated amateur wrestling career, representing the United States at the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing. He won three Big 12 championships and two NCAA Division I titles while competing for the University of Missouri wrestling program. Askren also captured gold at the 2005 Pan American Championships and the 2009 World Championships, further cementing his legacy in wrestling.

Due to his incredible experience, Askren also helped many new UFC fighters with their wrestling. His health condition also affected many fighters who were really emotional in their response, Now that Askren is on his journey to recovery, internet wished him best of luck. Here are some reactions following his latest video message to his fans from the hospital bed.

As expected, many fans were heartbroken seeing Ben Askren in such a condition, but they were relieved he pulled through. Askren admitted that he now weighed 147-pounds, and the last time he was that thin was when he was in high school. The fans poured in heartfelt wishes for his recovery, supporting the fighter who has clearly lost several pounds through this ordeal.

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