Ben Askren Hospitalized with Severe Pneumonia, Wife Amy Asks for Prayers and Privacy
Former UFC fighter and Olympic wrestler Ben Askren has been hospitalized due to a sudden and severe case of pneumonia, his wife Amy Askren shared in a heartfelt message on social media.
“You may have heard that my husband Ben is going through something,” Amy posted on Facebook. “He developed severe pneumonia which came on very suddenly. He’s currently in the hospital and unable to respond to anything at this time. We welcome all prayers for healing and peace.”
According to CBS News, the 40-year-old ex-MMA star was initially diagnosed with a staph infection, which later escalated into pneumonia. As concern spread throughout the MMA community, Amy’s statement helped clarify his condition while requesting privacy during this difficult time.
Ben and Amy Askren have been married since April 2010 and are parents to three children — daughters Alex and Andy, and son Ozi. The family resides in Wisconsin, where Amy says they are doing their best to maintain stability for their kids.
“We’re trying to keep life as normal as possible for our children and support them in the most thoughtful way we can,” she said. “Please refrain from discussing this with them for the time being.”
Amy also expressed gratitude to those who have offered support, adding, “Thank you for all your prayers for healing and peace.”
Ben Askren boasts a professional MMA record of 19-2 and officially retired from the UFC in 2019. Before joining the UFC, he earned welterweight championships in both Bellator MMA and ONE Championship.
In addition to his professional fighting career, Askren was an elite collegiate wrestler. He was a two-time NCAA Division I national champion at the University of Missouri, finishing with an impressive 153-8 record — making him the most accomplished wrestler in the school’s history. He later represented the United States in the 2008 Summer Olympics.
Fans and fellow athletes across the combat sports world continue to send well-wishes to the Askren family as Ben battles through his illness.
0 Comments