The Ben Askren Story Unpacking His MMA Career And Current Life

Hey guys, ever wondered what happened to Ben Askren? This is a question that pops up a lot among MMA fans, and for good reason. Ben Askren, a name synonymous with wrestling prowess and a unique fighting style, had a career filled with highs, lows, and plenty of memorable moments. But where is he now? What's he been up to since hanging up his gloves? Let's dive into the journey of "Funky" Ben Askren, exploring his rise in the world of mixed martial arts, the controversies, the setbacks, and what he's doing today.

From Wrestling Star to MMA Phenom

Ben Askren's story doesn't start in the MMA cage; it begins on the wrestling mat. Before he was known for his funky grappling style inside the octagon, Askren was a decorated wrestler. A two-time NCAA Division I National Champion and a Hodge Trophy winner (the Heisman Trophy of wrestling), Askren's wrestling credentials were, to put it mildly, impressive. His transition to MMA was highly anticipated, with many wondering how his exceptional wrestling skills would translate into the world of mixed martial arts. It’s this solid foundation in wrestling that really shaped his MMA career and made him a force to be reckoned with.

When Askren made the switch to MMA, he brought with him a wrestling-heavy style that was both effective and, at times, frustrating for his opponents. His ability to take opponents down and control them on the ground became his trademark. This wasn't just about takedowns, though; it was about a relentless pressure and a knack for grinding out victories. His early career saw him dominate in promotions like Bellator and ONE Championship, where he became a champion and built an impressive undefeated streak. It was during this time that he earned the nickname "Funky," a nod to his unorthodox and often awkward-looking grappling style. He wasn’t your typical striker; he was a wrestler who knew how to use his strengths to his advantage, and that’s what made him so compelling to watch. The early success in these organizations really set the stage for his eventual move to the UFC, where he would face the toughest challenges of his career.

The Rise Through Bellator and ONE Championship

Before stepping into the UFC octagon, Askren carved out an impressive legacy in other promotions, most notably Bellator and ONE Championship. In Bellator, he quickly established himself as a top welterweight contender, capturing the Bellator Welterweight Championship and defending it multiple times. His wrestling-heavy approach proved incredibly effective, as he consistently out-grappled his opponents, showcasing his exceptional control and ground-and-pound abilities. Askren's dominance in Bellator solidified his reputation as one of the best welterweights outside the UFC.

After his stint in Bellator, Askren made a move to ONE Championship, a prominent MMA promotion in Asia. There, he continued his winning ways, capturing the ONE Welterweight Championship and further extending his undefeated streak. His time in ONE Championship saw him face a variety of skilled opponents, each presenting unique challenges. However, Askren's wrestling prowess and strategic approach allowed him to maintain his dominance, reinforcing his status as a top-tier fighter on the global stage. It was his success in these promotions that ultimately paved the way for his highly anticipated arrival in the UFC.

The UFC Chapter: High Hopes and Hard Knocks

The buzz around Ben Askren reached a fever pitch when he finally signed with the UFC. Fans and analysts alike were eager to see how his unique style would fare against the top welterweights in the world. The UFC is, after all, considered the pinnacle of MMA, and Askren's arrival was seen as a major test of his skills and his place in the sport. His debut fight was nothing short of dramatic, setting the tone for his brief but eventful UFC career.

His first fight in the UFC was against Robbie Lawler, a former UFC Welterweight Champion known for his toughness and striking ability. The fight was a wild affair, with Askren absorbing some heavy shots early on before securing a takedown and locking in a controversial submission. The referee stopped the fight, believing Lawler was unconscious, though Lawler immediately protested the stoppage. The victory was awarded to Askren, but the controversy surrounding the finish sparked debate among fans and pundits. Some argued that the stoppage was premature, while others believed Lawler was indeed out. Regardless, the fight put Askren squarely in the spotlight and set the stage for what many hoped would be a successful UFC run. This victory, however controversial, added another layer to the Askren narrative, making his next fights even more highly anticipated.

The Jorge Masvidal Highlight Reel

Askren's second UFC fight is one that will forever be etched in MMA history, but perhaps not in the way he would have wanted. He faced Jorge Masvidal, a veteran fighter known for his striking and trash-talking ability. The lead-up to the fight was filled with trash talk and animosity, with both fighters trading barbs in the media. When the cage door closed, Masvidal delivered one of the most spectacular knockouts in UFC history. Just five seconds into the fight, Masvidal landed a flying knee that knocked Askren unconscious. The fight set the record for the fastest knockout in UFC history and immediately went viral.

The knockout was a shocking end to a highly anticipated fight and a devastating blow to Askren's UFC aspirations. It not only resulted in a loss but also raised questions about his durability and striking defense. The image of Askren unconscious on the canvas became an instant meme, and the fight was replayed countless times on highlight reels. For Askren, it was a humbling experience that underscored the unpredictable nature of MMA. Despite his wrestling pedigree and previous success, he learned firsthand the dangers of the striking game at the highest level. This loss significantly altered the trajectory of his UFC career and prompted him to reassess his approach to fighting.

The Maia Submission Loss and Retirement

Following the devastating loss to Masvidal, Askren sought to rebound against another formidable opponent, Demian Maia, a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu legend. The fight was seen as a classic striker versus grappler matchup, with Askren's wrestling skills pitted against Maia's world-class submission game. The fight played out largely on the ground, with both fighters engaging in intricate grappling exchanges. While Askren had moments of success, Maia's superior submission skills ultimately proved to be the difference. Maia secured a rear-naked choke in the third round, forcing Askren to tap out. This loss marked Askren's second consecutive defeat in the UFC and raised further questions about his future in the sport.

Shortly after the loss to Maia, Ben Askren announced his retirement from MMA. Citing hip problems and the need for surgery, Askren explained that his body was no longer able to withstand the rigors of professional fighting. He acknowledged the toll that years of wrestling and MMA had taken on his body and made the difficult decision to step away from the sport. While his UFC career may not have gone as planned, Askren's impact on MMA is undeniable. His wrestling-heavy style and outspoken personality made him a polarizing figure, but he always brought excitement and intrigue to the cage. His retirement marked the end of an era for fans who had followed his career from his early days in Bellator and ONE Championship.

Beyond the Cage: What is Ben Askren Doing Now?

So, what is Ben Askren doing now? Well, life after fighting has been quite busy for "Funky" Ben. He's transitioned into a variety of roles, staying connected to the combat sports world while also exploring new ventures. One of his most visible roles is as an MMA analyst and commentator. Askren's insightful commentary and often humorous takes on fights have made him a popular figure in the media. He's not afraid to speak his mind, and his analysis often provides a unique perspective, drawing on his own experiences as a fighter. This role allows him to stay close to the sport he loves while sharing his knowledge with fans.

Coaching and Wrestling Ventures

Askren's passion for wrestling hasn't waned since his MMA days. He's heavily involved in coaching wrestling, working with young athletes and sharing his expertise. His wrestling background is, after all, the foundation of his combat sports career, and he's eager to pass on his knowledge to the next generation. Askren's coaching extends beyond just technique; he also emphasizes the mental aspects of wrestling, helping young athletes develop the mindset needed to succeed. This commitment to wrestling underscores his deep connection to the sport and his desire to give back to the community that supported him throughout his career.

Entrepreneurial Pursuits

Beyond coaching and commentary, Askren has also ventured into the world of entrepreneurship. He's involved in several business ventures, showcasing his diverse interests and skills. While he may be best known for his athletic achievements, Askren's entrepreneurial pursuits demonstrate his business acumen and his willingness to take on new challenges. These ventures allow him to apply the same drive and determination that he displayed in the cage to the business world. This transition highlights the multifaceted nature of Askren's personality and his ability to thrive in different arenas.

Social Media and the Public Eye

Ben Askren has always been active on social media, and that hasn't changed since his retirement. He uses platforms like Twitter to share his thoughts on MMA, engage with fans, and offer his often-humorous takes on current events. His social media presence allows him to maintain a connection with his fans and stay relevant in the MMA community. Askren's personality shines through in his online interactions, making him a popular figure to follow. He's not afraid to share his opinions, and his candidness has earned him both fans and critics. Regardless, his social media activity keeps him in the public eye and allows him to continue influencing the MMA conversation.

Ben Askren's Legacy: More Than Just a Record

When we look back at Ben Askren's career, it's easy to focus on the highlight-reel knockout or the controversial stoppage. But his legacy is about more than just wins and losses. It's about his unique style, his wrestling pedigree, and his outspoken personality. Askren brought a different flavor to MMA, and he challenged the conventional wisdom of how fights should be won. He showed that wrestling could be a dominant force in the sport, and he paved the way for other wrestlers to make the transition to MMA. His impact on the sport extends beyond his record, and his contributions will be remembered for years to come.

Askren's career serves as a reminder that success in MMA is not just about physical talent; it's also about mental toughness and strategic thinking. His ability to adapt his wrestling skills to the MMA environment was a testament to his intelligence as a fighter. He understood his strengths and weaknesses and developed a style that maximized his chances of success. This strategic approach, combined with his relentless work ethic, allowed him to achieve a great deal in the sport. His career is a case study in how to leverage one's strengths and overcome challenges in the world of mixed martial arts.

A Polarizing Figure, Undeniable Impact

Ben Askren was undoubtedly a polarizing figure in MMA. Some fans loved his unique style and outspoken personality, while others found him frustrating to watch. His wrestling-heavy approach sometimes led to slow-paced fights, and his trash talk occasionally rubbed people the wrong way. However, his impact on the sport is undeniable. He forced fighters to adapt to his wrestling style, and he brought a different kind of excitement to the cage. Whether you loved him or hated him, Ben Askren was always a compelling figure, and his presence in MMA made the sport more interesting.

In conclusion, the story of Ben Askren is one of highs and lows, of triumphs and setbacks. From his dominant run in Bellator and ONE Championship to his brief but eventful UFC stint, Askren's career was never dull. And while he may have hung up his gloves, his impact on MMA and his continued involvement in the sport ensure that his legacy will endure. So, the next time you wonder what happened to Ben Askren, remember that he's still making his mark, just in a different way.