Ben Askren`s wife has shared a recent update regarding the health status of the former MMA world champion after he was admitted to the hospital.
The 44-year-old fighter was hospitalized last week, suffering from severe pneumonia caused by a staph infection.
According to a poignant social media post from his wife, Amy, Askren`s condition was critical and he was initially “unresponsive”.
In her latest Facebook post, she appealed to friends, family, and fight fans to keep her husband in their prayers.
Feeling incredibly thankful for our friends and community.
It`s during times like these that you are reminded how truly blessed you are.
I feel God`s presence through the love and support we`ve received.
I apologize if I haven`t been able to respond to everyone individually, but please know I have seen your messages, and each one has meant a great deal to me.
Please continue to pray for Ben.
Upon hearing of his hospitalization, the mixed martial arts community quickly sent their well wishes to Askren.
Former two-division UFC champion Henry Cejudo posted on X (formerly Twitter): “Pray for Ben Askren.”
Former middleweight champion Chris Weidman commented: “Prayers out to Ben Askren and his family!!”
Lightweight fighter Terrance McKinney also stated: “Prayers for Ben Askren.”
Dillon Danis tweeted: “I heard the news about Ben Askren before it was widely reported. His condition is much more serious than many people realize. Regardless of any past rivalry, he is a great coach and a dedicated family man. I am praying he pulls through this.”
Askren announced his retirement from mixed martial arts in 2019, following a little over a year with the UFC where he secured three victories.
He briefly came out of retirement in April 2021 for a boxing match against Jake Paul, who defeated him by knockout in the first round of the event held during the pandemic.
Percy Harlow