Ben Askren's Journey From Wrestling Star To MMA And Beyond

Ben Askren, a name synonymous with wrestling prowess and mixed martial arts (MMA) eccentricity, captivated the combat sports world for years. Known for his unorthodox striking and dominant grappling, Askren carved a unique path in the sport. But what exactly happened to Ben Askren? This article delves into his illustrious career, the circumstances surrounding his retirement, and what he's been up to since hanging up his gloves.

The Rise of a Wrestling Phenom

Before transitioning to MMA, Ben Askren established himself as one of the most decorated wrestlers in American history. His wrestling journey began in high school, where he quickly gained recognition for his unusual style, characterized by relentless pressure and a focus on securing takedowns. This unique approach, often described as 'funky', proved incredibly effective, earning him numerous accolades and setting the stage for his collegiate career. Moving to the University of Missouri, Askren continued his dominant run, becoming a two-time NCAA Division I national champion and a four-time All-American. His wrestling record speaks volumes about his dedication and skill, showcasing a relentless pursuit of victory that would later define his MMA career. Askren's wrestling background provided him with a solid foundation for his transition to MMA, giving him a distinct advantage in grappling exchanges and takedown defense. It was clear from his early wrestling days that Askren possessed a rare combination of physical talent, mental toughness, and an unwavering commitment to his craft. His accomplishments in wrestling laid the groundwork for his future success in mixed martial arts, where he would face new challenges and opponents, but always with the same fierce determination that propelled him to the top of the wrestling world. Ben Askren's wrestling journey is a testament to the power of hard work and the importance of developing a unique style. His success in wrestling not only earned him accolades but also prepared him for the demanding world of professional fighting. His transition to MMA was a natural progression for an athlete of his caliber, and he carried the lessons and experiences from his wrestling career with him, shaping his approach to fighting and contributing to his overall success.

The MMA Years A Grappling Masterclass

Transitioning into MMA, Ben Askren brought his exceptional wrestling pedigree with him, quickly establishing himself as a force to be reckoned with. His MMA career began in 2009, and he soon joined Bellator Fighting Championships, where he captured the welterweight title. Askren's fighting style was distinctly grappling-heavy, relying on his wrestling expertise to control opponents and secure dominant positions. While his striking was often criticized, his ability to take opponents down and maintain control on the ground made him a formidable challenge for anyone he faced. His time in Bellator was marked by a series of dominant performances, showcasing his ability to neutralize opponents' strengths and impose his will in the cage. After his stint in Bellator, Askren moved to ONE Championship, where he continued his winning ways, capturing another welterweight title. His fights in ONE Championship further solidified his reputation as a grappling wizard, with many opponents struggling to cope with his relentless takedowns and suffocating top control. Askren's success in both Bellator and ONE Championship demonstrated his global appeal and his ability to adapt to different fighting styles and environments. He became known for his unconventional approach, often utilizing unorthodox techniques and strategies to gain an advantage over his opponents. His willingness to push the boundaries of the sport and his unwavering confidence made him a compelling figure in the MMA world. Ben Askren's MMA career is a testament to the effectiveness of a strong wrestling base in mixed martial arts. His ability to control the fight on the ground and dictate the pace made him a nightmare matchup for many opponents. While his striking may not have been his strongest suit, his grappling skills were so dominant that he was able to overcome many challenges and achieve a high level of success in the sport. His journey through Bellator and ONE Championship highlights his versatility and adaptability as a fighter, as well as his unwavering commitment to his craft.

The UFC Stint A Rocky Road

Ben Askren's arrival in the UFC was highly anticipated, marking his entry into the world's premier MMA organization. However, his UFC career proved to be a rollercoaster ride, filled with both excitement and disappointment. His debut fight against Robbie Lawler was a controversial affair, ending in a submission victory for Askren that many felt was premature. Despite the victory, the fight highlighted some of Askren's vulnerabilities, particularly his striking defense. His next fight was against Jorge Masvidal, a seasoned veteran known for his striking prowess. The fight ended in a record-breaking knockout, with Masvidal landing a flying knee just seconds into the bout. The loss was a stark reminder of the dangers of MMA and the importance of well-rounded skills. Askren's final fight in the UFC was against Demian Maia, a world-class grappler known for his jiu-jitsu expertise. In a back-and-forth battle, Maia ultimately secured a submission victory, marking Askren's second consecutive loss in the UFC. The UFC stint was a challenging chapter in Askren's career, as he faced some of the toughest opponents in the world and experienced both highs and lows. While he showed glimpses of his grappling brilliance, he also exposed some weaknesses in his overall game. The intense competition in the UFC highlighted the importance of a well-rounded skill set and the need to adapt to different fighting styles. Despite the setbacks, Askren remained a popular figure among fans, known for his outspoken personality and his willingness to engage in trash talk. His UFC career may not have gone as planned, but it was certainly memorable, marked by dramatic finishes and unpredictable moments. Ben Askren's time in the UFC served as a reminder of the brutality and unpredictability of MMA, as well as the importance of being prepared for any challenge. While he may not have achieved the same level of dominance in the UFC as he did in other organizations, his time in the UFC added another layer to his complex and compelling career story.

Retirement The Hip Injury and Beyond

Ben Askren's retirement from MMA was largely due to a persistent hip injury that had plagued him for some time. The injury, which required hip replacement surgery, significantly impacted his mobility and ability to train effectively. While he initially tried to fight through the pain, it became clear that the injury was affecting his performance and long-term health. The decision to retire was a difficult one for Askren, who had dedicated his life to combat sports. However, he recognized that it was the best choice for his physical well-being. The hip injury served as a constant reminder of the physical toll that MMA can take on the body, and Askren was unwilling to risk further damage. Since retiring from MMA, Askren has remained active in the combat sports community, transitioning into roles as a commentator, analyst, and coach. He has also pursued other interests, including wrestling coaching and entrepreneurial ventures. Askren's post-MMA career has been marked by his continued passion for combat sports and his desire to give back to the community. He has used his platform to share his knowledge and experience, mentoring young fighters and providing insights into the sport. His transition from fighter to commentator has allowed him to stay connected to the MMA world while also exploring new avenues for his career. Ben Askren's retirement from MMA was a significant moment in his career, but it also marked the beginning of a new chapter. His ability to adapt and find new ways to contribute to the combat sports community is a testament to his resilience and his unwavering love for the sport. His post-retirement activities have allowed him to continue to make an impact on the MMA world, even without stepping into the cage.

What is Ben Askren Doing Now?

Since retiring from professional fighting, Ben Askren has embarked on a diverse range of ventures. He has become a prominent figure in the combat sports media landscape, offering his insights and analysis as a commentator and analyst for various platforms. His candid and often humorous commentary has made him a popular figure among fans. In addition to his media work, Askren has also pursued his passion for wrestling, coaching young athletes and sharing his expertise. He has remained involved in the wrestling community, helping to develop the next generation of talent. Askren has also ventured into the entrepreneurial world, exploring various business opportunities and investments. His business acumen and strategic thinking have allowed him to succeed in areas outside of combat sports. Furthermore, Askren has continued to engage with his fans through social media, sharing his thoughts and experiences on a variety of topics. His active presence on social media has allowed him to maintain a connection with his fanbase and continue to share his unique perspective on the world. Ben Askren's post-retirement activities demonstrate his versatility and his ability to adapt to new challenges. His success in media, coaching, and business is a testament to his diverse skills and his unwavering drive. His continued involvement in the combat sports community, coupled with his entrepreneurial pursuits, has allowed him to maintain a fulfilling and impactful career after retiring from professional fighting. It's clear that Ben Askren's competitive spirit and desire to contribute to the world have not diminished, even after hanging up his gloves.

Ben Askren's Legacy A Unique Mark on Combat Sports

Ben Askren's legacy in combat sports is one of uniqueness and resilience. He carved his own path in the world of MMA, defying conventional norms and showcasing the effectiveness of a grappling-heavy style. His wrestling pedigree and unorthodox approach made him a formidable opponent for anyone he faced. While his UFC career may not have reached the same heights as his stints in Bellator and ONE Championship, his overall impact on the sport is undeniable. Askren's willingness to be himself and his unwavering confidence made him a fan favorite, even among those who didn't always agree with his fighting style. His trash-talking and outspoken personality added another layer to his persona, making him a compelling figure both inside and outside the cage. Askren's legacy extends beyond his accomplishments in the ring or cage. He served as an inspiration to many, demonstrating that there are different paths to success in combat sports. His unconventional style and relentless pursuit of victory challenged traditional notions of what it means to be a fighter. Ben Askren's legacy is also one of dedication and hard work. His journey from wrestling standout to MMA champion is a testament to his commitment to his craft. His willingness to adapt and evolve as a fighter, even in the face of adversity, is a valuable lesson for aspiring athletes. Ultimately, Ben Askren's legacy is that of a true original in the world of combat sports. His unique style, outspoken personality, and unwavering dedication have left an indelible mark on the sport, and his contributions will be remembered for years to come. He showed that fighters don't have to fit a mold and that being true to yourself can lead to great success.