Ben Askren News: Everything You Need To Know

Hey guys! Ever wondered what Ben Askren, the wrestling phenom turned MMA fighter, has been up to? Well, buckle up because we're diving deep into the world of "Funky" Ben, covering everything from his wrestling roots to his transition to mixed martial arts, his controversial moments, and what he’s doing now. Whether you're a die-hard fan or just curious, this is your one-stop shop for all things Ben Askren.

From Wrestling Mat to MMA Cage: The Rise of Ben Askren

Ben Askren's wrestling career is nothing short of legendary. Before he was known for his MMA exploits, Askren was a dominant force on the wrestling mat. A two-time NCAA Division I champion at the University of Missouri, Askren's unique and unorthodox style, often referred to as "Funky," baffled opponents and captivated audiences. His ability to scramble, control, and secure takedowns made him a formidable competitor. This wrestling foundation would later become the cornerstone of his MMA career. Even those who don't follow wrestling can appreciate the dedication and skill it takes to reach such a high level of achievement. Askren's transition from wrestling to MMA wasn't immediate, but when he made the switch, he brought with him a relentless work ethic and a burning desire to prove himself in a new arena. His wrestling pedigree gave him a significant advantage in controlling where the fight took place, allowing him to dictate the pace and style of the bout. In many ways, his wrestling background became his calling card, setting him apart from other fighters with more traditional striking backgrounds. His achievements in wrestling are a testament to his athleticism, technical skill, and mental toughness, all of which played a crucial role in his subsequent success in mixed martial arts.

Askren's journey into mixed martial arts (MMA) was highly anticipated, given his decorated wrestling background. He made his professional debut in 2009 and quickly established himself as a force to be reckoned with. His wrestling-heavy style proved to be a difficult puzzle for many opponents to solve. Askren's early MMA career was marked by a series of dominant victories, showcasing his ability to control opponents on the ground and secure submissions. He joined Bellator MMA, where he captured the welterweight title, further solidifying his reputation as a top prospect in the sport. His time in Bellator was characterized by a relentless pursuit of takedowns and a suffocating top game that wore down his opponents. He wasn't always the most exciting fighter to watch, but his effectiveness was undeniable.

After Bellator, Askren moved to ONE Championship, where he continued his dominance, winning the ONE Welterweight World Championship. His time in ONE Championship saw him further refine his MMA skills, although his wrestling remained his primary weapon. Askren's success in ONE Championship helped to build his international profile and set the stage for his eventual move to the UFC. Fans and analysts alike were eager to see how his unique style would translate against the best welterweights in the world. The move to the UFC was a significant moment in Askren's career, representing the culmination of years of hard work and a chance to prove himself on the biggest stage in MMA. His journey from wrestling standout to international MMA champion is a testament to his adaptability, determination, and unwavering belief in his abilities.

UFC Stint and Controversial Moments

Askren's arrival in the UFC was highly anticipated, but his tenure with the promotion was marked by both excitement and controversy. He was traded to the UFC in exchange for Demetrious Johnson, a move that shook the MMA world. His debut fight against Robbie Lawler was a wild affair, ending in a controversial stoppage that sparked debate among fans and analysts. Some argued that Lawler was still conscious when the fight was stopped, while others believed that Askren had secured a legitimate submission. The controversy surrounding the fight only added to the intrigue surrounding Askren's UFC career. Despite the questionable nature of the victory, it was a win nonetheless, and Askren moved forward with his sights set on the top of the welterweight division. However, his subsequent fights would prove to be more challenging.

One of the most talked-about moments of Askren's career was his fight against Jorge Masvidal at UFC 239. Masvidal knocked out Askren with a flying knee just five seconds into the fight, setting a new record for the fastest knockout in UFC history. The knockout went viral and became an instant meme, with countless replays and parodies circulating online. The loss was a devastating blow to Askren's career, and it raised questions about his ability to compete against the elite strikers in the welterweight division. The speed and brutality of the knockout were shocking, and it served as a stark reminder of the dangers of MMA.

Following the devastating loss to Masvidal, Askren faced Demian Maia, a highly respected grappler. Maia submitted Askren in the third round, further derailing Askren's UFC career. The loss to Maia highlighted Askren's struggles against high-level grapplers who were able to neutralize his wrestling. After the loss, Askren announced his retirement from MMA, citing hip issues that had plagued him for years. His time in the UFC was short and turbulent, but it left an indelible mark on the sport. Despite the setbacks and controversies, Askren remained a popular and polarizing figure, known for his outspoken personality and his willingness to engage with fans and critics alike.

Life After Fighting: What is Ben Askren Up To Now?

Since retiring from MMA, Ben Askren has remained active in the combat sports community. He has transitioned into coaching, sharing his wrestling expertise with aspiring fighters. Askren's coaching ventures have been well-received, and he has worked with several prominent MMA fighters. His unique approach to wrestling and his ability to break down complex techniques have made him a valuable asset to any training camp. He has also remained involved in the wrestling world, offering commentary and analysis for various events. His insights are always entertaining and informative, and he brings a unique perspective to the sport.

Askren has also explored other avenues, including podcasting and commentary. He co-hosts a podcast where he discusses MMA news and provides his unfiltered opinions on the sport. His podcast has gained a loyal following, thanks to his candid and often humorous commentary. He doesn't shy away from controversial topics, and he's always willing to speak his mind. Askren's media ventures have allowed him to stay connected to the MMA community and share his passion for the sport with a wider audience. He has also appeared as a commentator for various MMA events, providing his unique insights and analysis to viewers around the world.

In a surprising turn of events, Askren ventured into the world of professional boxing, facing Jake Paul in a highly publicized bout. Although Askren lost the fight, the event generated significant buzz and showcased his willingness to step outside of his comfort zone. The fight was a massive spectacle, attracting attention from both MMA and boxing fans. While Askren's performance was not stellar, his participation in the event demonstrated his entrepreneurial spirit and his ability to capitalize on his fame. The fight against Paul was a lucrative opportunity for Askren, and it allowed him to explore a new avenue in the combat sports world. Even though he lost, Askren proved that he was willing to take risks and embrace new challenges.

Ben Askren's journey has been anything but ordinary. From his dominant wrestling career to his foray into MMA and even boxing, he's always kept things interesting. Whether you love him or hate him, there's no denying that he's left a lasting impact on the world of combat sports. And who knows what "Funky" Ben will do next? One thing's for sure: it'll be worth watching!