What Happened to Ben Askren?
In the world of mixed martial arts (MMA) and wrestling, few figures have sparked as much debate and intrigue as Ben Askren. A two-time NCAA Division I champion, Bellator and ONE Championship titleholder, and Olympic wrestler, Askren has made a lasting impact on the sports he has competed in. However, recent developments have left many fans and followers asking, “What happened to Ben Askren?” This blog post aims to chronicle his journey, notable events in his career, and what he is up to today.
The Early Years and Rise in Wrestling
Born on July 18, 1984, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Ben Askren’s journey in sports began with a solid foundation in wrestling. He demonstrated exceptional talent early on, eventually becoming a state champion in high school. His collegiate career at the University of Missouri was outstanding, as he won the NCAA title in 2006 and 2007. Askren’s unorthodox wrestling style, combined with his relentless training, made him a standout grappler, paving the way for his future in MMA.
Transition to Mixed Martial Arts
In 2009, after establishing himself in amateur wrestling, Askren transitioned to mixed martial arts, where he would find great success. His initial foray into the sport came when he signed with Bellator MMA. Over the next few years, he cemented his legacy by becoming the Bellator Welterweight World Champion, with a historic winning streak, demonstrating his grappling prowess and strategic approach to fights.
In 2013, Askren made headlines when he was controversially released from Bellator MMA, prompting fans to speculate on his future. However, he soon signed with ONE Championship, where he continued to assert his dominance, ultimately becoming the ONE Welterweight Champion. His time in ONE Championship only enhanced his reputation, further showcasing his skills and strategy that many athletes could barely contend with.
Facing Challenges and Defeats
One of the defining moments of Askren’s career came in April 2019 when he made his highly anticipated debut in the UFC against Jorge Masvidal. Unfortunately for Askren, it did not go as planned. He was knocked out in just five seconds with one of the fastest knockouts in UFC history, which left fans and pundits stunned. This marked a setback in his career but didn’t overshadow his accomplishments.
Despite this defeat, Askren continued to fight in the UFC, facing tough opponents like Demian Maia and Gilbert Burns. He fought his last bout against Jake Paul in April 2021 as part of a crossover boxing event, where he faced another loss, leading to questions about his future in combat sports.
Retirement and Current Endeavors
Following his fight with Jake Paul, Askren announced his retirement from professional fighting, deciding to focus on other ventures and his family. His retirement was a bittersweet chapter, but one he embraced as he sought to carve out a new path outside of the octagon.
Currently, Ben Askren is involved in various projects, including a podcast and commentary work, where he shares his insights on MMA and sports. He leverages his experience to educate and entertain fans, remaining an influential voice in the community. Askren has also expressed interest in coaching and mentoring future generations of wrestlers and fighters, reflecting his passion for the sport.
What’s Next for Ben Askren?
Ben Askren’s future remains bright. Though he has stepped away from active competition, his involvement in the sports community assures fans that he is not disappearing. Askren has hinted at potential projects and collaborations that may unveil more of his journey, aiming to remain connected to MMA enthusiasts worldwide.
Conclusion
So, what happened to Ben Askren? The answer is a blend of remarkable achievements, challenging losses, and a promising future beyond fighting. His journey from a wrestling standout to being a champion in MMA exemplifies the triumphs and trials faced in professional sports. As he embarks on this new chapter, fans of Askren can look forward to seeing him grow and contribute to the world of athletics in innovative ways.
For more details about his life and career, check out his Wikipedia page.
