Former MMA fighter Ben Askren has shared harrowing details of the most difficult year of his life, revealing he nearly died after a severe health battle. The year 2025 became a fight for survival for the athlete, who was hospitalized for a grueling 59 days and ultimately needed a double lung transplant due to severe pneumonia.
A Nightmare Year and a Fight for Survival
Ben Askren's life took a dramatic turn in 2025 when a serious case of pneumonia left him fighting for his life. His condition deteriorated so severely that it led to an extended hospital stay lasting 59 days. The medical crisis culminated in a double lung transplant, a life-altering procedure that marked the peak of his struggle.
As he looks toward 2026, Askren feels his life is finally moving in a positive direction. Reflecting on the ordeal, he describes it as an unreal experience, similar to a half-remembered nightmare. He now enters the new year with a profound sense of gratitude, deep reflection, and a much calmer perspective on what truly holds value in life.
Blurred Memories and a Life Re-evaluated
In a conversation with TMZ, Askren explained that large portions of his illness are a complete blur. He recalls weeks without proper awareness or the ability to communicate. In his mind, it felt as though he had momentarily departed from the world and then returned.
This near-death experience forced him to conduct a deep audit of his life prior to the health scare. He confronted a critical question: would he have been satisfied with his life if he had never woken up? After thorough introspection, Askren stated he felt proud of how he had lived. However, he also acknowledged there are changes he intends to make, seeing 2026 as an opportunity to apply the lessons from his recovery and live with greater purpose.
Focus on Health and a Different Future
Currently, Askren's primary focus remains on regaining his strength and health. He has, however, reached a point where he feels strong enough to start planning for the future again, albeit a future that will look vastly different from his past.
Simple activities he once took for granted, such as attending wrestling tournaments with his children, are now challenging or currently impossible. While accepting these limitations is difficult, Askren is learning to adapt. He finds relief in reaching a stage where daily tasks are no longer overwhelming. For him, the ability to breathe comfortably and successfully get through a day is now considered a major victory.
One confirmed project in his future is his continued involvement with Real American Freestyle, the wrestling organization co-founded by Hulk Hogan. Askren remains optimistic about the group's prospects and is excited to build upon the foundation laid in its first year.
