What Happened to Ben Askren? A Comprehensive Overview of His Career and Life
Ben Askren is a prominent figure in the world of professional sports, particularly in mixed martial arts (MMA) and wrestling. His career has spanned various platforms, showcasing not only his athletic abilities but also his personality and journey through professional sports. In this blog post, we will delve into the ups and downs of Ben Askren’s career, exploring what happened to him and how he has transitioned from being an elite athlete to a public figure.
Early Life and Wrestling Career
Born on July 18, 1984, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Ben showed a passion for sports from an early age. He was a standout wrestler at such a young age, earning a state championship in high school. His dedication to the sport led him to the University of Missouri, where he distinguished himself as a three-time NCAA All-American and a two-time NCAA champion.
The Transition to Mixed Martial Arts
Following his collegiate success, Ben Askren transitioned to mixed martial arts, making his professional debut in 2009. His grappling skills gave him a significant advantage over many competitors, allowing him to quickly rise through the ranks. Unique for his wrestling-heavy style, Askren became known for his ability to control opponents on the ground.
Bellator and One Championship Success
Askren quickly made a name for himself in Bellator MMA, where he became the promotion’s welterweight champion. His tenure in Bellator was marked by notable victories over respected fighters, including Jay Hieron and Douglas Lima. This success helped solidify his reputation as one of the top welterweights in the world. In 2013, he left Bellator and signed with One Championship, where he continued to dominate his opponents, becoming the One Championship welterweight champion and remaining undefeated during his tenure.
UFC Debut and Controversy
After a successful stint in Asia, Ben Askren signed with the UFC in 2019, a highly anticipated move for fans and analysts alike. However, his UFC debut was met with both excitement and skepticism. On April 18, 2019, he faced Robbie Lawler at UFC 235. In a match defined by intense exchanges and grappling prowess, Askren won via submission. However, the fight was not without controversy, as many believed Lawler was stopped prematurely.
Falling Short Against Jorge Masvidal
Askren’s subsequent fight against Jorge Masvidal at UFC 239 became a defining moment in his career. In a swift opening, Masvidal knocked Askren out with a perfectly timed flying knee just five seconds into the match, marking one of the fastest knockouts in UFC history. This loss was painful for Askren, leading to questions about his standing in the sport.
Retirement from MMA
Following his defeat against Masvidal, Askren faced another loss against Demian Maia in October 2019. The culmination of these setbacks led him to announce his retirement from mixed martial arts in November 2019. His decision was influenced by the physical toll that fighting had taken on his body and the challenges of competing at the highest level.
Life After Fighting
Since retiring, Ben Askren has embraced life outside of the cage. He has engaged in various endeavors, including coaching, podcasting, and sports analysis. His charisma and insight into wrestling and fighting have made him a popular figure in sports commentary. Additionally, he has been active on social media, where he shares his thoughts on current events and engages with fans, showcasing his vibrant personality.
Askren’s Continuing Influence in Sports
Despite his retirement, Ben Askren continues to influence the world of sports. His contributions to wrestling, both as an athlete and coach, have been significant in propagating the sport. He often speaks about the importance of mental toughness and resilience, values that have helped shape the next generation of athletes.
Conclusion
Ben Askren’s journey through sports is marked by triumphs and challenges that resonate with many athletes and fans alike. His rise through the ranks of wrestling, his successful career in MMA, and his transition into a media personality illustrate the dynamic nature of an athlete’s career. For anyone wondering what happened to Ben Askren, it can be said that while he may no longer compete in the octagon, his impact on the sports world continues to be felt.
For more detailed information on Ben Askren, you can visit his Wikipedia page.
