Former UFC star and Olympic wrestler Ben Askren has made a miraculous recovery, and shocked the MMA world by returning to wrestling training just months after undergoing a life-saving double lung transplant. Once fighting for his life in a hospital bed, Askren is now back on the mat, showing the same determination that made him a combat sports legend.
From the ICU to the Wrestling Mat
In June 2025, Ben Askren was hospitalized with severe pneumonia that quickly progressed into a life-threatening illness. Doctors said that the only way to save him was to give him a double lung transplant, which is a very risky treatment that takes a long time to heal from.
Later, Askren said that his heart stopped four times during the whole thing. In an emotional update, he said, “I don’t remember anything from May 28 to July 2. I basically died four times.” During that time, he lost around 50 pounds and was unable to move without assistance.
His wife, Amy Askren, became his biggest supporter and source of hope. She kept followers up to date and thanked them for their support. The successful transplant marked the start of a long rehabilitation path, one that few expected to see progress so quickly.
“What’s Your Excuse?”
Askren shocked fans by posting a video of himself training on the wrestling mats again just five months after the surgery. In the video, he does minor drills, stretches, and footwork routines, which many people felt were impossible so soon after such a big operation.
He wrote a striking caption for the post:
“Four months ago, I was on my death bed. Three months ago, I couldn’t stand unassisted. Two months ago, I was using a walker. What’s your excuse?”
The video, went viral across social media, earning praise from athletes and fans worldwide. Many called his determination “unbelievable” and “the ultimate comeback story.”
The Symbol of Resilience in MMA and Wrestling
Ben Askren’s story isn’t just about getting better; it’s also about being strong and tough mentally. His return to wrestling after getting a double lung transplant shows that the fighter’s perspective goes beyond competition.
Even when the odds are stacked against him, Askren continues to inspire the sports world by showing that hard work and faith can help people get through even the hardest times. His return also highlights how important organ donation, medical progress, and mental strength are for those who are recovering.
What’s Next for Ben Askren?
It may take some time for Askren to fully return to active training, but his steady improvement is already changing what people expect from rehabilitation after a transplant. His narrative reminds us that real champions never give up, whether they’re in the cage or not.
Fans from both the MMA and wrestling worlds continue to keep their sights on him as he works to get stronger. One thing is for sure: Ben Askren’s name will always mean more than just titles. It will always mean hope, perseverance, and the human spirit’s determination to give up.
