Ben Askren: From Olympic Hopeful to MMA Maverick to Hip Replacement - What Happened?

Jul 27, 2025

Ben Askren: An Unconventional Path in Combat Sports

Ben Askren, a name synonymous with unorthodox striking, elite wrestling, and a polarizing personality, carved a unique niche in the world of combat sports. From his wrestling dominance to his eventual foray into mixed martial arts (MMA), Askren's career was marked by both incredible highs and unexpected lows. This article delves into the trajectory of Ben Askren, examining his wrestling background, his success in organizations like Bellator and ONE Championship, his brief but memorable UFC tenure, and the factors that ultimately led to his retirement and subsequent pursuits.

The Foundation: Wrestling Prowess and Olympic Dreams

Askren's athletic journey began on the wrestling mat. His wrestling career wasn't just a stepping stone to MMA; it was a period of unparalleled achievement and dedication.

• **High School Dominance:** Askren was a two-time Missouri state champion wrestler at Arrowhead High School.
• **Collegiate Stardom:** He continued his success at the University of Missouri, where he became a two-time NCAA Division I national champion (2006 and 2007) and a four-time All-American. Askren’s unusual scrambling style and relentless pressure earned him the Hodge Trophy in 2007, wrestling's equivalent of the Heisman Trophy.
• **Olympic Aspirations:** Askren represented the United States at the 2008 Beijing Olympics. While he didn't medal, his participation at the highest level of amateur wrestling solidified his reputation as one of the nation's best. His Olympic experience, although ultimately unfulfilled in terms of medals, provided invaluable lessons in competition, discipline, and perseverance.

Askren's wrestling background was more than just a skill set; it was an identity. It shaped his approach to competition, his mental toughness, and his confidence in his ability to control opponents. This foundation would prove crucial as he transitioned to the unpredictable world of MMA.

Transition to MMA: Bellator and ONE Championship Domination

In 2009, Ben Askren made the transition to professional MMA. Initially training with American Top Team, he quickly realized his striking style, while functional, wouldn't be his primary weapon. He leaned heavily on his wrestling, developing a unique top control game characterized by smothering pressure, relentless positional advancements, and a surprising ability to secure submissions.

Bellator Welterweight Champion

Askren signed with Bellator Fighting Championships (now Bellator MMA) and rapidly ascended the ranks. His wrestling-heavy style, while not always aesthetically pleasing, proved incredibly effective. He defeated Lyman Good in 2010 to become the Bellator Welterweight Champion.

Askren defended his title once against Jay Hieron before a controversial release from the promotion. Despite his undefeated record and championship status, disagreements with Bellator's management regarding his fighting style and marketability led to his departure. This release, while unexpected, allowed Askren to explore other opportunities in the burgeoning MMA landscape.

ONE Championship Reign

After leaving Bellator, Askren signed with ONE Championship, Asia's largest MMA promotion. He quickly established himself as the dominant force in their welterweight division. In 2014, he defeated Nobutatsu Suzuki to become the ONE Welterweight Champion. He defended his title multiple times, showcasing his grappling prowess and solidifying his reputation as one of the best welterweights outside of the UFC.

During his time in ONE Championship, Askren faced criticism for the level of competition, with some arguing that the opponents he faced were not of the same caliber as those in the UFC. However, Askren consistently demonstrated his dominance and remained undefeated, further building his legend in the MMA world. His performances in ONE Championship demonstrated his adaptability and his commitment to refining his grappling-heavy style to achieve consistent victories.

The UFC Chapter: A Mixed Bag of Results

For years, Ben Askren was considered one of the best fighters not in the UFC. His undefeated record and championships in Bellator and ONE Championship fueled constant speculation about his potential in the world's premier MMA organization. In 2018, a historic trade between the UFC and ONE Championship finally brought Askren to the UFC, sending former UFC flyweight champion Demetrious Johnson to ONE in return. This trade was unprecedented and generated massive buzz, as fans eagerly anticipated Askren's arrival and the potential matchups it created.

Controversial Debut

Askren's UFC debut was against former UFC welterweight champion Robbie Lawler at UFC 235. The fight was mired in controversy. Askren secured a bulldog choke on Lawler, and referee Herb Dean stopped the fight, believing Lawler was unconscious. However, Lawler immediately protested, claiming he was still conscious. Replays were inconclusive, and the stoppage remained highly debated.

While Askren was awarded the victory, the controversy overshadowed the win and fueled skepticism about his chances against top-tier UFC competition. The fight showcased Askren's grit and determination, as he weathered an early storm from Lawler before securing the choke. However, it also highlighted his striking vulnerabilities and raised questions about his ability to absorb punishment against more powerful strikers.

The Masvidal Knee: A Viral Moment

Askren's second UFC fight was against Jorge Masvidal at UFC 239. This fight became infamous for its spectacular and devastating finish. Masvidal landed a flying knee just five seconds into the fight, knocking Askren unconscious. It was the fastest knockout in UFC history and instantly became a viral sensation. The image of Askren unconscious on the canvas became a symbol of the unpredictable and brutal nature of MMA.

This loss was a major setback for Askren's UFC aspirations. It exposed his striking deficiencies and shattered the aura of invincibility he had cultivated throughout his career. The loss also fueled criticism of his wrestling-heavy style, with some arguing that it was too predictable and easily countered by elite strikers.

Demian Maia Loss and Retirement

Askren's final UFC fight was against grappling legend Demian Maia at UFC Fight Night 162. While Askren showcased his wrestling skills early in the fight, Maia eventually secured a rear-naked choke in the third round, forcing Askren to submit. This loss marked the second consecutive defeat for Askren in the UFC and further diminished his standing in the welterweight division.

Shortly after the Maia fight, Askren announced his retirement from MMA. Citing a hip injury that had plagued him for years, Askren stated that he could no longer compete at the highest level. The hip injury, which required a hip replacement, significantly impacted his mobility and ability to train effectively. The culmination of the injury, coupled with the recent losses, led Askren to conclude that it was time to step away from the sport.

Factors Contributing to Askren's UFC Struggles

Several factors contributed to Ben Askren's underwhelming UFC tenure:

• **Striking Deficiencies:** Askren's striking was always considered his weakness. While he improved his striking over time, it remained significantly behind his wrestling skills. Against elite UFC strikers like Masvidal, this disparity proved to be a major liability.
• **Aging and Injuries:** By the time Askren entered the UFC, he was already in his mid-30s and had accumulated a significant amount of wear and tear from years of wrestling and MMA competition. The hip injury further hampered his training and performance.
• **Competition Level:** The UFC's welterweight division is arguably the most competitive in MMA. The level of competition in the UFC was significantly higher than what Askren had faced in Bellator and ONE Championship.
• **Style Matchups:** Askren's wrestling-heavy style, while effective against many opponents, proved vulnerable against fighters with excellent takedown defense and dangerous striking.
• **Mental Game:** The pressure of competing in the UFC, coupled with the criticism and scrutiny he faced after the Lawler controversy, may have also impacted Askren's mental game.

Life After MMA: Coaching, Podcasting, and... Boxing?

Retirement from MMA didn't mean a departure from combat sports for Ben Askren. He transitioned into various roles, including:

• **Wrestling Coach:** Askren has remained involved in wrestling, coaching and mentoring young athletes. He shares his knowledge and experience to help develop the next generation of wrestlers.
• **Podcast Host:** Askren co-hosts the "Funky and The Champ" podcast, where he discusses MMA, wrestling, and other topics with former UFC fighter Michael Chiesa.
• **MMA Analyst:** He provides analysis and commentary on MMA events for various media outlets, offering his unique perspective on the sport.
• **Celebrity Boxing Match:** In 2021, Askren participated in a celebrity boxing match against Jake Paul. Despite having a significant wrestling advantage, Askren lost the fight by TKO in the first round. The event generated considerable attention and further cemented Askren's status as a polarizing figure in the combat sports world. The boxing match was largely viewed as a novelty event, with Askren acknowledging that his striking skills were not on par with those of a professional boxer.

The Hip Replacement Journey

Following his MMA career, Askren underwent hip replacement surgery. This was a necessary procedure to alleviate the chronic pain and mobility issues he had been experiencing.

• Stem Cell Treatment Experimentation: Before opting for a total hip replacement, Askren explored stem cell therapy options. These treatments aimed to regenerate cartilage and reduce inflammation in the hip joint. While initially promising, the effects were not long-lasting enough to allow him to continue high-impact activities like wrestling or MMA.
• Pre-Surgery Preparation: Recognizing the importance of physical conditioning for a successful recovery, Askren engaged in pre-surgery exercises. These included low-impact activities like swimming and cycling to strengthen the muscles around the hip.
• Post-Surgery Rehabilitation: Askren dedicated significant time to his rehabilitation. Physical therapy played a crucial role in restoring his range of motion and rebuilding strength.
• Return to Activity: While a full return to MMA was not possible, Askren has been able to resume a more active lifestyle. He now enjoys activities like hiking and recreational sports, showcasing the success of his hip replacement.

Askren's Legacy: More Than Just Wins and Losses

Ben Askren's career is a testament to the power of wrestling, the importance of adapting to the MMA landscape, and the realities of physical limitations. While his UFC tenure may not have lived up to the hype, his accomplishments in Bellator and ONE Championship, combined with his unique personality and relentless pursuit of his goals, have solidified his place in MMA history.

• **Pioneer of Wrestling in MMA:** Askren demonstrated the effectiveness of a wrestling-heavy style in MMA, paving the way for other wrestlers to succeed in the sport.
• **Unconventional Approach:** Askren's unorthodox striking and relentless grappling style challenged the traditional norms of MMA.
• **Polarizing Figure:** Askren's outspoken personality and willingness to engage in trash talk made him a polarizing figure, attracting both fans and detractors.
• **Resilience and Determination:** Askren's ability to overcome challenges and setbacks, both inside and outside the cage, is a testament to his resilience and determination.

Ben Askren's story is a complex and fascinating one, marked by both triumphs and tribulations. He may not have achieved all of his goals in the UFC, but his impact on the sport of MMA is undeniable. His legacy will be remembered for his wrestling dominance, his unconventional style, and his unwavering commitment to his craft. He showed the world that success can be achieved in unexpected ways, even if the final chapter isn't exactly as planned. His journey from Olympic hopeful to MMA champion to commentator, coach, and more demonstrates his passion for combat sports and his ability to adapt to new challenges.

Ben Askren: Key Takeaways

• Wrestling as a Dominant Base: Askren proved the effectiveness of a strong wrestling background in MMA, utilizing his grappling skills to control opponents and dictate the pace of fights.
• Adaptation is Crucial: While Askren's striking wasn't his strong suit, he continuously worked to improve and adapt his game plan to suit his strengths.
• Mental Fortitude: Askren's mental toughness and unwavering belief in his abilities were evident throughout his career, helping him overcome challenges and setbacks.
• Controversy and Entertainment: Askren embraced his role as a polarizing figure, engaging in trash talk and generating excitement around his fights.
• The Inevitable Impact of Injuries: Injuries ultimately played a role in Askren's decision to retire, highlighting the physical toll of a career in combat sports.

The Future of Wrestling in MMA

Ben Askren's success, along with other prominent wrestlers in MMA such as Daniel Cormier and Khabib Nurmagomedov, has solidified the importance of wrestling as a base for MMA fighters. Wrestling provides fighters with a strong foundation in takedowns, takedown defense, and ground control, which are crucial for success in the sport.

• Continued Emphasis on Wrestling: Expect to see more aspiring MMA fighters focusing on wrestling as a foundation for their careers.
• Evolution of Wrestling Styles: Wrestling styles in MMA will continue to evolve as fighters adapt their techniques to the specific demands of the sport.
• Integration of Striking and Wrestling: The most successful MMA fighters will be those who can seamlessly integrate their wrestling skills with their striking abilities.