The Truth About Ben Askren: Beyond the Octagon

Ben Askren, a well-known name in mixed martial arts (MMA), has sparked curiosity about his recent path. An Olympic wrestler, champion in various disciplines, and former Bellator and ONE Championship titleholder, Askren had a career filled with highs and lows that made him a legend in the sport. But what happened to him after retiring from the octagon?

Career Highlights and Rise

Ben Askren began as a collegiate wrestler, competing at the 2008 Olympics. His transition to MMA was marked by a meteoric rise. From 2014 to 2019, Askren dominated the welterweight and middleweight divisions, mainly in Bellator and ONE Championship, where his relentless technique and wrestling-based style earned him convincing wins.

They saw him as a technical and strategic fighter, but one who didn’t shy away from confrontation when necessary. His success earned him multimillion-dollar contracts and celebrity status in MMA. However, not everything was smooth sailing.

The Peak and Early Retirement

Askren joined UFC in 2019 with high expectations but delivered a surprisingly brief performance. In his UFC debut, he was quickly finished by Jorge Masvidal with the iconic 5-second flying knee—one of the fastest knockouts in UFC history.

After this unexpected loss, Askren fought two more times, being knocked out by Robbie Lawler in his farewell fight. In 2021, he announced his definitive retirement from MMA. They understood he wanted to preserve his health and pursue new paths.

Post-MMA Life: Who is Ben Askren Today?

After stepping away from the octagon, Askren reinvented himself as a sports commentator, analyst, and social media personality. His charisma and honesty captivated fans, quickly making him an influential voice in MMA.

They also noticed his involvement in discussions about mental health, modern training, and political issues related to the sport. Askren positions himself as a defender of athletes’ rights and the evolution of fighting, aiming to bring more professionalism to MMA.

Moreover, he has explored personal projects and business ventures outside the sport, showing versatility and readiness for life beyond fighting.

Controversies and Recent Challenges

Though respected, Askren is not free from controversy. His blunt statements about other fighters, training, and MMA politics often spark heated debates on social media.

They see him as a polarizing figure: loved for his authenticity but criticized for his directness. This duality keeps Askren always in the spotlight and relevant to fans.

The Legacy of Ben Askren

They recognize Askren as a fighter who transformed his sport. His technical style, unique personality, and honest stance put him in the spotlight.

Today, Ben Askren exemplifies overcoming adversity, resilience, and reinvention. Even after stepping away from the ring, his influence in MMA remains strong, proving his impact goes beyond wins and losses.