Ben Askren Story From Wrestling Phenom To MMA Career And Retirement

Hey guys! Let's dive into the career of Ben Askren, a name synonymous with wrestling excellence and a unique, albeit brief, stint in the world of mixed martial arts. Askren's story is one of incredible grappling prowess, strategic brilliance, and a willingness to challenge the status quo. However, it's also a story marked by unexpected turns and a retirement that left many fans wondering, "What really happened to Ben Askren?" In this article, we'll explore Askren's wrestling dominance, his transition to MMA, his notable fights, the circumstances surrounding his retirement, and his legacy in the world of combat sports. Get ready for a comprehensive look at the career of "Funky" Ben Askren!

From Wrestling Mat to MMA Cage: Ben Askren's Rise

Ben Askren's foundation was built on a stellar wrestling career. Before he was known for his unorthodox MMA style, Askren was a two-time NCAA Division I National Champion for the University of Missouri, a four-time All-American, and an Olympian. His wrestling style was characterized by relentless pressure, exceptional scrambling ability, and a knack for securing takedowns, earning him the moniker "Funky" due to his unconventional and unpredictable approach. His accomplishments in wrestling speak volumes about his dedication, skill, and competitive drive. He wasn't just winning; he was dominating, showcasing a level of mastery that few could match. This wrestling pedigree naturally led many to wonder how Askren's skills would translate into the world of mixed martial arts.

The transition to MMA seemed like a natural progression for Askren, given his wrestling background. In 2009, he made his professional debut, quickly establishing himself as a force to be reckoned with. His wrestling base provided a significant advantage, allowing him to control opponents on the ground and dictate the pace of the fight. However, MMA is more than just wrestling, and Askren had to develop other aspects of his game, particularly his striking. While his striking was never his strongest suit, Askren's strategic mind and unwavering confidence allowed him to effectively blend his wrestling with his evolving stand-up game. He wasn't trying to become a knockout artist; he was focused on implementing his game plan and using his wrestling to neutralize his opponents' strengths. His early MMA career was marked by a series of victories, solidifying his reputation as a top prospect in the sport.

Askren's early success wasn't just about winning fights; it was about showcasing his unique style and personality. He wasn't afraid to be himself, and his "Funky" persona resonated with fans who appreciated his authenticity and his willingness to be different. He wasn't trying to be the typical MMA fighter; he was carving his own path, and that's what made him so compelling to watch. His journey from wrestling mat to MMA cage was a testament to his adaptability and his unwavering belief in his abilities. He was a wrestler first, but he was quickly becoming an MMA fighter in his own right, and the world was watching with anticipation to see how far he could go.

Championships and Controversies: The Peak of Askren's Career

As Ben Askren's MMA career progressed, he captured championships in both Bellator and ONE Championship, solidifying his status as one of the top welterweights in the world. His dominant performances showcased his wrestling prowess and his ability to control fights. In Bellator, he captured the welterweight title and defended it multiple times, establishing a reputation as a dominant champion. His fights were often characterized by his relentless takedowns and his suffocating top control, leaving opponents frustrated and unable to mount any significant offense. He wasn't just winning; he was imposing his will on his opponents, and that's what made him such a formidable force.

Following his stint in Bellator, Askren joined ONE Championship, where he continued his winning ways and captured the ONE Welterweight World Championship. His time in ONE Championship further cemented his reputation as one of the best welterweights outside of the UFC. He faced a variety of opponents, showcasing his adaptability and his ability to adjust his game plan as needed. He wasn't afraid to take risks, and he wasn't afraid to push the pace, making his fights consistently exciting to watch. His success in ONE Championship was a testament to his global appeal and his ability to connect with fans around the world.

However, Askren's career wasn't without its controversies. Despite his success, he faced criticism for his striking and his perceived lack of finishing ability. Some fans and analysts felt that his fights were often too wrestling-heavy and lacked the excitement of a knockout finish. These criticisms, while valid to some extent, often overlooked Askren's strategic brilliance and his ability to win fights decisively using his grappling skills. He wasn't trying to be a crowd-pleaser; he was trying to win, and he was incredibly effective at doing so. The controversies surrounding his style and his career only added to the intrigue surrounding Askren, making him one of the most talked-about fighters in the sport. His journey to the top was marked by both triumphs and tribulations, but through it all, Askren remained true to himself and his unique style.

The UFC Chapter: A Rocky Road

The highly anticipated move to the UFC marked a significant chapter in Ben Askren's career. After years of dominating in other organizations, Askren finally joined the premier MMA promotion, and fans were eager to see how he would fare against the UFC's top welterweights. The hype surrounding his arrival was immense, with many predicting that he would immediately challenge for the title. However, Askren's UFC journey proved to be a rocky one, filled with highs and lows.

His debut fight against Robbie Lawler was a rollercoaster, ending in a controversial stoppage victory for Askren. The fight was a wild affair, with Lawler initially dominating before Askren managed to secure a bulldog choke. The referee stopped the fight, believing Lawler was unconscious, although Lawler protested the stoppage. The controversial nature of the victory sparked debate among fans and analysts, with some questioning whether the stoppage was justified. Despite the controversy, the win marked a successful UFC debut for Askren, albeit one that left many questions unanswered.

Following the Lawler fight, Askren faced Jorge Masvidal, and the result was nothing short of spectacular – and not in Askren's favor. Masvidal knocked Askren out with a flying knee just five seconds into the fight, setting a new record for the fastest knockout in UFC history. The knockout was a shocking end to a highly anticipated matchup, and it sent shockwaves through the MMA world. Askren's aura of invincibility was shattered, and the loss raised questions about his ability to compete against the UFC's elite strikers. The Masvidal fight became an instant highlight-reel knockout, but it also served as a harsh reminder of the unpredictable nature of MMA.

Askren's final UFC fight was against Demian Maia, a submission specialist known for his world-class jiu-jitsu. Askren lost the fight via rear-naked choke, marking his second consecutive defeat in the UFC. The loss to Maia further dampened the excitement surrounding Askren's UFC career, and it left many wondering about his future in the sport. While Askren had shown glimpses of his wrestling prowess in the UFC, he was ultimately unable to replicate the dominance he had displayed in other organizations. His UFC stint, while brief, was a stark reminder of the challenges of competing at the highest level of MMA, and it ultimately played a role in his decision to retire.

Retirement and Legacy: What's Next for "Funky" Ben?

The series of events in the UFC, coupled with pre-existing health issues, ultimately led to Ben Askren's retirement from professional MMA. Following the loss to Demian Maia, Askren announced his retirement, citing a hip injury that had been plaguing him for some time. The hip injury, coupled with the setbacks in the UFC, made it clear to Askren that it was time to hang up the gloves. His retirement marked the end of a unique and captivating MMA career, leaving fans to reflect on his accomplishments and his legacy in the sport.

Despite the disappointing end to his UFC career, Ben Askren's legacy in MMA remains significant. He was a pioneer in the sport, showcasing the effectiveness of a wrestling-heavy style and proving that there are many different paths to success in MMA. His dominant runs in Bellator and ONE Championship established him as one of the top welterweights in the world, and his willingness to take on all comers earned him the respect of fans and fighters alike. He wasn't afraid to be himself, and his "Funky" persona resonated with many, making him a popular and polarizing figure in the sport.

Since retiring from MMA, Askren has remained involved in combat sports, albeit in different capacities. He has worked as an analyst and commentator, providing his unique insights and perspectives on the sport. He has also been involved in coaching and training, sharing his knowledge and experience with the next generation of fighters. In addition, Askren has participated in grappling matches and other combat sports events, showcasing his grappling skills and his competitive spirit. His post-MMA career has been a testament to his passion for combat sports and his desire to stay involved in the community.

Ben Askren's story is a reminder that success in combat sports is not always linear. It's a journey filled with ups and downs, triumphs and setbacks. While his UFC stint may not have gone as planned, his overall career is one of accomplishment and resilience. He left an indelible mark on the sport, and his legacy as a wrestling phenom and a unique MMA fighter will endure. So, what happened to Ben Askren? He lived a career true to himself, he competed with passion, and he exited the sport on his own terms, leaving behind a story that will continue to be told for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ben Askren

What was Ben Askren's wrestling background?

Ben Askren had a highly decorated wrestling career before transitioning to MMA. He was a two-time NCAA Division I National Champion, a four-time All-American, and an Olympian. His wrestling style was characterized by relentless pressure and exceptional grappling skills.

Why did Ben Askren retire from MMA?

Ben Askren retired from MMA primarily due to a hip injury that had been affecting him for some time. The injury, combined with his recent losses in the UFC, led him to the decision to retire from professional competition.

What is Ben Askren doing now?

Since retiring from MMA, Ben Askren has remained involved in combat sports as an analyst, commentator, and coach. He has also participated in grappling matches and other combat sports events.

What is Ben Askren's MMA record?

Ben Askren's professional MMA record is 19 wins, 2 losses, and 1 no-contest.

What championships did Ben Askren win in MMA?

Ben Askren won the welterweight championships in both Bellator and ONE Championship.