Ben Askren's Wife Shares Emotional Update: Former UFC Star Receives Double Lung Transplant
Former MMA champion Ben Askren has faced an unimaginable health battle, and his wife, Diana Askren, has bravely shared a deeply personal update with fans. In a recent social media post, Diana revealed that Ben underwent a double lung transplant after a severe bout of pneumonia stemming from a staph infection.
The news comes after Ben was hospitalized in early June, where he was battling a serious case of pneumonia. Initially, the situation appeared to be a challenging but manageable infection. However, the condition rapidly deteriorated, leading to the drastic measure of a lung transplant. This revelation highlights the severity of Ben’s illness and the incredible efforts undertaken by the medical team to save his life.
Diana’s post was filled with gratitude for the medical professionals who worked tirelessly to secure a donor and perform the complex surgery. She also expressed immense appreciation for the outpouring of support from fans, friends, and the MMA community. While acknowledging the long and difficult road to recovery ahead, Diana’s message was overwhelmingly positive, emphasizing Ben's strength and determination.
“As many of you know, Ben has been facing a significant health challenge. What we didn’t share was the extent of it. He was recently placed on an ECMO machine and, after a period of waiting, received a double lung transplant. This was a monumental and incredibly risky surgery, and we are eternally grateful to the donor and their family for giving Ben a second chance at life,” Diana wrote.
The MMA world has rallied around Ben and his family, sending messages of support and well wishes. His former colleagues and rivals alike have expressed their admiration for his fighting spirit and their hopes for a full and speedy recovery. Figures like Jorge Masvidal, with whom he shared a famously contentious, yet ultimately respectful, rivalry, have been among those offering encouragement.
Ben Askren’s career was marked by his dominant wrestling background and his aggressive, unconventional fighting style. He achieved success in both Bellator and ONE Championship before joining the UFC. While his time in the UFC was relatively short, his impact on the sport was undeniable. His willingness to take on all comers and his entertaining fights made him a fan favorite.
The focus now, however, is entirely on Ben’s health and recovery. Diana’s update provides a much-needed reassurance to fans concerned about his well-being. The transplant is a testament to the advancements in medical science and the unwavering dedication of healthcare professionals. It also serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of organ donation.
Updates on Ben’s condition will undoubtedly be eagerly awaited by his fans. For now, the outpouring of support and the hope for a full recovery remain strong. This situation underscores the power of community and the resilience of the human spirit, particularly in the face of adversity. We wish Ben and his family all the best in this challenging journey.
