Ben Askren Hospitalized with Severe Pneumonia: Latest Updates and Insights

Introduction

Former UFC star and Olympic wrestler Ben Askren is currently hospitalized due to severe pneumonia. His wife, Amy Askren, shared the news via social media, prompting an outpouring of support from the MMA community and fans alike.

Health Condition Update

In a heartfelt post on Facebook, Amy Askren provided an update on her husband’s unexpected health crisis.

“You may have heard that my husband Ben is going through something,” she wrote. “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.”

Background on His Condition

Askren’s pneumonia diagnosis follows an earlier staph infection. According to CBS News, this escalation to pneumonia has left the 40-year-old former fighter in critical condition.

Request for Privacy

Amy has requested privacy for their family during this challenging time, stating:

“We are trying to keep life as normal as possible for our [three] children currently and doing our best to support them thoughtfully so please refrain from discussing it with them for now.”

Family and Personal Life

Ben and Amy, who married in April 2010, are proud parents of three children: daughters Alex and Andy, and son Ozi, residing in Wisconsin. Amy expressed her gratitude for the prayers and support that have poured in during this difficult period.

Family Dynamics

• Children:

  • Daughters: Alex and Andy
  • Son: Ozi
• Residence:
  The family lives in Wisconsin, working to maintain a sense of normalcy for their children.

Ben Askren’s Career Highlights

With a career record of 19-2 in MMA, Ben Askren’s athletic journey has been impressive:

• UFC Career:
  Retired from the UFC in 2019, with a notable 1-2 record. His victory came against former champion Robbie Lawler.

• Wrestling Accomplishments:

  • Two-time NCAA Division I Champion
  • Member of the 2008 U.S. Olympic team
  • Holds a remarkable collegiate record of 153-8, making him the most decorated wrestler in the history of the University of Missouri.
• Other Titles:
  • Former welterweight champion in Bellator MMA and One Championship
  • Gained significant attention during a boxing match against Jake Paul in April 2021.

Community Support and Next Steps

The response from the community has been overwhelmingly positive, showcasing the deep respect and admiration people have for Askren, both as an athlete and individual. Amy’s public plea for prayers underlines the gravity of the situation and reflects their commitment to facing challenges as a family.

What You Can Do

• Send Prayers and Good Wishes:
  The Askren family welcomes any positive thoughts or prayers during this tough time.

• Respect Their Privacy:
  Understanding their need for space is crucial as they navigate through this health challenge together.

Conclusion

As the MMA community comes together to support Ben Askren and his family, fans are hopeful for his recovery from pneumonia. The road to recovery may be challenging, but the outpouring of love and prayers offers a glimmer of hope. Stay tuned for more updates on Ben Askren’s condition and support his family during this trying time.

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