Death- Obituary news

Remembering Ben Askren: A Legend in Combat Sports

The world of combat sports mourns the loss of Ben Askren, a two-time NCAA wrestling champion and a former champion in both Bellator and ONE Championship. On June 12, 2025, the heartbreaking news broke that Askren had passed away after a courageous battle with pneumonia. His untimely death has left a significant void in the community, and tributes are pouring in from fans, fellow athletes, and sports organizations alike.

Early Life and Wrestling Career

Ben Askren was born on July 18, 1984, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. From a young age, he exhibited exceptional talent in wrestling, which would later pave the way for his illustrious career in combat sports. He attended the University of Missouri, where he quickly made a name for himself as a dominant force on the wrestling mat.

During his collegiate career, Askren secured two NCAA championships in 2006 and 2007. His exceptional skills, combined with an unyielding work ethic, earned him numerous accolades and a reputation as one of the top wrestlers in the country. After graduating, he transitioned to mixed martial arts (MMA), where his wrestling background became a pivotal aspect of his fighting style.

Rise in MMA

Ben Askren made his professional MMA debut in 2009 and soon found success in various promotions. He first gained recognition in Bellator, where he won the welterweight title and defended it multiple times. His grappling expertise and relentless pressure made him a formidable opponent in the cage.

In 2013, Askren signed with ONE Championship, further elevating his profile in the sport. He continued to dominate, capturing the ONE welterweight title and remaining undefeated for the entirety of his career within the organization. Askren’s fighting style, characterized by his superior wrestling and strategic approach, made him a fan favorite and earned him respect from his peers.

Notable Achievements

Throughout his career, Ben Askren achieved numerous milestones that cemented his legacy in the world of combat sports. Some of his most notable accomplishments include:

• NCAA Championships: Two-time champion in collegiate wrestling, showcasing his prowess at the highest level of amateur wrestling.
• Bellator Welterweight Champion: Successfully defended his title multiple times, demonstrating his dominance in the promotion.
• ONE Championship Welterweight Champion: Held the title with an undefeated record, becoming one of the most recognized fighters in Asian MMA.
• UFC Debut: After a long-anticipated entry into the UFC, Askren faced off against top-tier opponents, including Jorge Masvidal. His fight against Masvidal, which ended in a knockout just five seconds into the first round, became one of the quickest finishes in UFC history.
  

  Legacy and Impact
  

  Ben Askren’s impact on the sport of wrestling and MMA extends beyond his accolades and victories. He was known for his outspoken personality, engaging social media presence, and willingness to speak candidly about the challenges athletes face. Askren’s dedication to improving the sport and supporting younger athletes has inspired many aspiring wrestlers and fighters.

  In addition to his success inside the cage, Askren was also a beloved figure outside of it. He often shared his insights and experiences through various media platforms, contributing to discussions on training, mental toughness, and the importance of a strong support system. His authentic approach resonated with fans and fellow athletes alike, solidifying his status as a role model.

  Community Response
  

  The news of Ben Askren’s passing has elicited an outpouring of grief and condolences from the combat sports community. Fans, fellow athletes, and coaches have taken to social media to express their sorrow and share memories of the talented wrestler and fighter. Many have highlighted his contributions to the sport and the impact he had on their lives, both as an athlete and a mentor.

  Organizations and promotions within the combat sports industry have also paid tribute to Askren, recognizing his achievements and the legacy he leaves behind. The wrestling and MMA communities are united in honoring his memory, demonstrating the profound influence he had on those around him.

  Conclusion
  

  Ben Askren’s untimely passing is a significant loss for the world of combat sports. His remarkable achievements as a two-time NCAA champion and former Bellator and ONE welterweight titleholder will forever be remembered. Beyond his accolades, Askren’s impact on the sport and the lives of those he touched will continue to resonate within the community.

  As we reflect on his legacy, it is essential to celebrate the moments that made Ben Askren a beloved figure in wrestling and MMA. His journey, from a young wrestler with a dream to a champion and mentor, serves as an inspiration for future generations. The world bids farewell to a true legend, and our thoughts and prayers are with the Askren family during this difficult time.

  In honoring Ben Askren, we remember not just the champion he was inside the cage, but the person he was outside of it—a dedicated athlete, a passionate advocate for the sport, and a beloved member of the community. His spirit will live on through the countless lives he touched and the legacy he leaves behind in the world of combat sports.

BREAKING: RIP Ben Askren
Two-time NCAA wrestling champion. Former Bellator and ONE welterweight titleholder. Passed away after a battle with pneumonia. Prayers out to the Askren family. pic.twitter.com/JLYRxLT6I5

— Combat Sports Moments (@combatmoments) June 12, 2025

BREAKING: RIP Ben Askren

In a heart-wrenching turn of events, the combat sports community is mourning the loss of Ben Askren, a two-time NCAA wrestling champion, and a former Bellator and ONE welterweight titleholder. The news broke that he passed away after battling pneumonia, leaving fans and athletes alike in shock. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Askren family during this incredibly difficult time.

Who Was Ben Askren?

Ben Askren was not just any athlete; he was a powerhouse in the world of wrestling and mixed martial arts (MMA). Born on July 18, 1984, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Ben quickly made a name for himself as a formidable wrestler. His career began to skyrocket when he became a two-time NCAA champion while wrestling for the University of Missouri. Askren’s wrestling prowess was evident in his unique style, which combined a blend of athleticism and technical skill. This foundation laid the groundwork for his transition into MMA.

Achievements in Wrestling

Throughout his collegiate wrestling career, Askren achieved remarkable feats. He was a two-time NCAA Division I champion, winning the title in 2006 and 2007. He was known for his unmatched determination and work ethic, which helped him secure a record of 153 wins and only 8 losses during his college tenure. His success at the collegiate level paved the way for his entry into the professional fighting world, where he would continue to shine.

Transition to Mixed Martial Arts

After dominating the collegiate wrestling scene, Ben made the bold decision to step into the world of mixed martial arts. He quickly established himself as a force to be reckoned with. In 2010, he signed with Bellator MMA, where he became the promotion’s welterweight champion by defeating Lyman Good. His tenure in Bellator was nothing short of spectacular, as he defended his title multiple times before moving on to compete in ONE Championship, another leading MMA organization.

Achievements in MMA

Askren’s MMA career is decorated with impressive accolades. He captured the ONE Championship welterweight title and successfully defended it several times, showcasing his elite grappling skills and relentless fighting style. Known for his ability to control opponents on the ground, Askren was often favored in matchups against strikers, leveraging his wrestling background to gain the upper hand.

The Askren Fighting Style

One of the defining features of Ben Askren’s fighting style was his relentless pursuit of takedowns and ground control. His wrestling background allowed him to dictate the pace of fights, often wearing down opponents and looking for openings to finish them. Askren was notorious for his “funk” style of wrestling, which involved unorthodox movements and positions that caught opponents off guard. This distinctive approach not only made him successful but also made his fights entertaining to watch.

Legacy in Combat Sports

Ben Askren’s contributions to combat sports extend beyond his titles and accolades. He was a beloved figure in the MMA community, known for his candid personality and willingness to engage with fans. Askren often used his platform to promote wrestling and MMA, inspiring countless young athletes to pursue their dreams in combat sports. His legacy will live on not only through his achievements but also through the many lives he touched throughout his career.

Community Reaction

The announcement of Ben Askren’s passing sent shockwaves throughout the sports world. Fans, fellow athletes, and coaches took to social media to express their condolences and share memories of the fighter. Many recalled moments from his career, praising his skills and contributions to the sport. The hashtag #RIPBenAskren trended on various platforms as the combat sports community came together to honor his life and legacy.

Personal Life and Family

Beyond the mat and the octagon, Ben Askren was a devoted husband and father. He often spoke about the importance of family in his life, and his wife, Amy, and their children were his pride and joy. In interviews, Askren frequently expressed gratitude for the support of his family, which he credited as a major factor in his success. The Askren family has asked for privacy during this difficult time, and the outpouring of support from fans proves just how much Ben was loved and respected.

Health Struggles

Askren’s battle with pneumonia was not widely known until the tragic news of his passing. Pneumonia, an infection that inflames the air sacs in one or both lungs, can be particularly dangerous for individuals with a history of respiratory issues. For athletes like Askren, maintaining peak physical condition is crucial, and the sudden onset of a serious illness serves as a sobering reminder of the fragility of life. The circumstances surrounding his health challenges highlight the importance of awareness and support for those battling similar issues.

Remembering Ben Askren

As we reflect on the life of Ben Askren, it’s essential to celebrate his incredible achievements and the impact he made within the sports community. His dedication to wrestling and MMA was evident in every match he fought and every championship he earned. Askren’s legacy will continue to inspire future generations of athletes, reminding them that hard work, determination, and passion can lead to greatness.

A Call for Support

In the wake of this tragic news, many organizations and supporters are encouraging fans to contribute to causes that align with Ben’s spirit. Whether it’s supporting youth wrestling programs or health initiatives, there are numerous ways to honor his memory. Additionally, the Askren family has expressed gratitude for the outpouring of love and support, emphasizing the importance of community during such challenging times.

Final Thoughts on a Wrestling Legend

Ben Askren was more than just a champion; he was a role model, a mentor, and a friend to many. His contributions to wrestling and mixed martial arts will not be forgotten, and his spirit will continue to live on through the countless lives he touched. As we say goodbye to this incredible athlete, we hold on to the memories, the lessons, and the inspiration he provided to all of us.

In memory of Ben Askren, let’s ensure that his legacy continues to inspire the world of sports and beyond. Our thoughts and prayers remain with the Askren family as they navigate this difficult journey. Ben, you will be missed, but your impact will never fade.