Ben Askren big health update after wife denied ex-UFC fighter had died
Former UFC star Ben Askren is still fighting for his life in hospital.
Ex-UFC fighter Ben Askren has shown signs of responsiveness and is able to 'open his eyes and 'squeeze hands', according to recent reports.
The former MMA competitor was hospitalised earlier this month after being struck down with a severe case of pneumonia due to a staph infection. Speculation over Askren's well-being intensified last week as online rumours falsely claimed he had passed away, leading Amy Askren, his wife, to clarify that her husband is very much "alive" yet still in a critical "fight".
Wrestling reporter Pat Mineo provided an optimistic update on Monday night, indicating that although Askren might still require a lung transplant, he is showing improvement. Sharing news on X he said : "Update: All the prayers and medical support Ben Askren has been receiving is working!
"He was able to open his eyes and squeeze hands, showing some responsiveness. He is still expected to need a lung transplant, but some of his levels are improving and he is fighting like a Champ! Keep praying for Ben Askren."
Adding to the concern for Askren, his friend Daniel Cormier disclosed last week that he had been transferred to another medical facility. The retired two-weight UFC champion conveyed sympathy during his podcast.
"I want to report to you guys that he's now back home in Wisconsin," Cormier said. "He's with his family, his beautiful wife, Amy. Everybody is just kind of praying that Ben gets better and we can start moving forward with life for Ben. It's so sad. I don't know how things like this happen to someone who is so good because Ben Askren is a good guy.
"Pray for Amy, guys. Pray for the kids. Ben, we love you, buddy. We are constantly thinking about him every single day. I cannot wait for the next 'Funky and the Champ' because we'll talk about that so much more."
Cormier's update followed shortly after Askren's wife Amy had to quash social media rumours falsely claiming her husband was no longer with us. She assured TMZ that her husband is "definitely still fighting".
At the height of his career, the American was hailed as one of the leading welterweights in combat sports, capturing championship titles in both Bellator and ONE Championship. He made his UFC debut in 2019, taking down former champion Robbie Lawler.
Yet following his triumph, Askren faced consecutive defeats at the hands of Jorge Masvidal and Demian Maia. Weeks after his bout with Maia, Askren declared his retirement from mixed martial arts, but his hiatus was cut short as he soon agreed to a boxing match against Jake Paul.
The 40-year-old faced a first-round knockout loss in what would be his sole venture into the boxing ring.
