Ben Askren The MMA Star A Look At His Career Retirement And Current Ventures

Hey guys! Ever wondered what happened to Ben Askren, the former MMA star known for his wrestling prowess and unique fighting style? Well, you're in the right place! Let's dive into the career, the controversies, and the current life of this intriguing athlete. Ben Askren's journey is a fascinating one, filled with highs, lows, and plenty of unforgettable moments. From his dominant wrestling career to his transition into mixed martial arts and his foray into the world of boxing, Askren has always been one to watch. His story is not just about fights and wins; it's about determination, resilience, and the ability to adapt and reinvent oneself. This article aims to explore the key events and decisions that have shaped his career and to provide insight into what he's up to now. So, let's get started and unravel the story of Ben Askren!

A Wrestling Prodigy

Ben Askren’s journey to combat sports stardom began long before he ever stepped into an MMA octagon or a boxing ring. His foundation was built on the wrestling mat, where he achieved incredible success and established himself as one of the most decorated wrestlers in American history. Guys, we’re talking about a wrestling career that's nothing short of legendary! Askren's wrestling style was characterized by his relentless pressure, unorthodox techniques, and an unwavering belief in his ability to control his opponents. This unique approach, often described as “funky,” made him a formidable competitor and a nightmare matchup for anyone he faced. His accomplishments in wrestling speak for themselves. He was a two-time NCAA Division I National Champion while wrestling for the University of Missouri, showcasing his dominance at the collegiate level. These championships are not just titles; they represent years of dedication, countless hours of training, and the mental fortitude to perform under immense pressure. Beyond his collegiate success, Askren also represented the United States at the 2008 Beijing Olympics. Competing on the Olympic stage is the pinnacle of any athlete's career, and Askren's participation underscores his status as an elite wrestler. While he didn't medal at the Olympics, the experience undoubtedly shaped his competitive spirit and fueled his desire for further success in combat sports. Askren's wrestling background wasn't just a stepping stone to MMA; it was the bedrock upon which he built his entire fighting career. His wrestling skills translated seamlessly into the world of mixed martial arts, giving him a significant advantage over many of his opponents. He could control where the fight took place, dictate the pace, and neutralize the strengths of his adversaries. This wrestling foundation is a crucial part of understanding Ben Askren's story and what made him such a compelling figure in the world of combat sports.

Transition to MMA

After his illustrious wrestling career, Ben Askren made the transition to mixed martial arts (MMA), a move that would further cement his legacy in combat sports. Guys, this was a game-changer! Askren’s decision to enter the world of MMA was driven by his competitive spirit and his desire to test his skills in a new arena. He saw MMA as the ultimate challenge, a place where he could combine his wrestling expertise with striking and submissions to become a complete fighter. This transition wasn't just a career change; it was a transformation. Askren had to adapt his wrestling-centric style to the multifaceted demands of MMA, incorporating striking techniques and submission grappling into his repertoire. His wrestling background gave him a significant advantage in controlling where the fight took place, but he also needed to develop his striking skills to be truly successful. Askren's early MMA career saw him compete in various organizations, where he quickly established himself as a force to be reckoned with. His relentless grappling and ability to dominate opponents on the ground made him a tough matchup for anyone. He racked up wins and began to build a reputation as one of the most promising welterweight fighters in the sport. His journey through the MMA landscape included stints in promotions like Bellator and ONE Championship, where he achieved significant success. These promotions provided him with a platform to showcase his skills on a global stage and to compete against some of the best fighters in the world. Askren's time in Bellator and ONE Championship was marked by dominant performances and title reigns, further solidifying his status as an elite MMA fighter. He captured championships in both organizations, demonstrating his ability to adapt and excel in different competitive environments. These title wins were not just personal achievements; they were statements that Ben Askren had arrived as a top-tier MMA fighter. His success outside of the UFC created a buzz and anticipation among fans who were eager to see how he would fare against the best the UFC had to offer. This anticipation would eventually lead to his highly anticipated arrival in the UFC, but not before he had made his mark on the international MMA scene.

UFC Arrival and the Masvidal Fight

Ben Askren's arrival in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) was highly anticipated, but his tenure in the promotion was marked by both excitement and controversy, culminating in one of the most talked-about fights in MMA history. Guys, this is where things get really interesting! The UFC is the pinnacle of MMA, and Askren's move to the organization was seen as a significant step in his career. Fans and analysts were eager to see how his wrestling-heavy style would match up against the top welterweights in the world. His debut 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 Lawler initially overwhelming Askren with strikes. However, Askren weathered the storm and secured a bulldog choke, leading to a controversial stoppage. The referee deemed Lawler unconscious, but replays suggested he may not have been. This controversial win set the stage for Askren's next fight, which would become one of the most iconic and replayed moments in MMA history. The fight against Jorge Masvidal at UFC 239 was supposed to be a showcase of Askren's wrestling against Masvidal's striking. However, it ended in just five seconds with Masvidal landing a flying knee that knocked Askren out cold. This was the fastest knockout in UFC history and instantly became a viral sensation. The knockout loss to Masvidal was a devastating blow to Askren's reputation and career trajectory. It not only resulted in his first professional loss but also cast doubt on his ability to compete at the highest level of the UFC. The fight became a defining moment in both fighters' careers, albeit for very different reasons. For Masvidal, it was a career-defining victory that catapulted him to superstardom. For Askren, it was a humbling experience that forced him to reassess his future in the sport. The aftermath of the Masvidal fight saw Askren compete once more in the UFC, losing to Demian Maia via submission. This loss further compounded his struggles in the promotion and ultimately led to his decision to retire from MMA.

Retirement from MMA and Hip Replacement

Following the devastating loss to Demian Maia, Ben Askren made the decision to retire from mixed martial arts (MMA), citing the physical toll the sport had taken on his body. Guys, this was a tough call, but a necessary one. Askren’s retirement announcement marked the end of an era for a fighter who had always competed with heart and determination. His decision was influenced by a nagging hip injury that had plagued him for years. The injury had gradually worsened, impacting his training and performance in the cage. Askren recognized that he could no longer compete at his best and made the difficult but pragmatic choice to step away from the sport. One of the major factors contributing to Askren's retirement was the need for a hip replacement. The wear and tear from years of wrestling and MMA had taken its toll on his hip joint, causing chronic pain and limiting his mobility. Hip replacement surgery is a significant procedure, and it requires a substantial recovery period. Askren underwent hip replacement surgery to address the pain and mobility issues he had been experiencing. The surgery was aimed at improving his quality of life and allowing him to pursue other activities without being limited by his hip. The recovery process from hip replacement surgery is lengthy and demanding, requiring physical therapy and rehabilitation to regain strength and mobility. Askren dedicated himself to the recovery process, working diligently to regain his fitness and overall health. His journey through recovery was not just about physical healing; it was also about mental and emotional adjustment to life after professional sports. Retirement from MMA is a significant life change for any fighter, and it requires adapting to a new routine and finding new challenges. Askren's focus on his recovery and his willingness to embrace new opportunities demonstrated his resilience and his ability to navigate life beyond the cage. His story serves as an example of how athletes can successfully transition into new chapters of their lives after their competitive careers come to an end.

Boxing Match with Jake Paul

After retiring from MMA, Ben Askren surprised many by stepping into the world of boxing for a match against Jake Paul, a YouTuber turned professional boxer. Guys, this was a curveball no one saw coming! Askren’s decision to box Jake Paul was met with mixed reactions from the combat sports community. Some saw it as a lucrative opportunity for Askren, while others questioned the legitimacy of the matchup given Paul’s relative inexperience in professional boxing. The fight was promoted as a clash between a seasoned MMA fighter and a social media personality, drawing significant attention and generating considerable buzz. Askren’s boxing skills were not his strength in MMA, where his wrestling and grappling were his primary weapons. This made him an underdog against Paul, who had been actively training in boxing and had a size and reach advantage. The fight itself was a short-lived affair, with Jake Paul knocking out Ben Askren in the first round. The knockout was a decisive victory for Paul and further fueled his boxing career. The loss to Paul was another setback for Askren in the combat sports arena. It highlighted the differences between MMA striking and boxing and underscored the challenges of transitioning between the two sports. The fight generated a lot of discussion about the crossover between MMA and boxing, as well as the role of celebrity boxing in the combat sports landscape. While Askren’s foray into boxing didn’t go as planned, it was a significant event that added another chapter to his career and demonstrated his willingness to take on new challenges. The fight also provided Askren with a financial opportunity and allowed him to stay in the public eye. His participation in the event showed his adaptability and his ability to capitalize on new avenues in the combat sports world.

What is Ben Askren Doing Now?

So, what is Ben Askren doing now after his MMA and boxing career? Well, guys, he's been keeping busy! Since retiring from active competition, Askren has transitioned into various roles within and outside the combat sports world. He remains a prominent figure in the MMA community, offering his insights and analysis on the sport. Askren has taken on commentary and analysis roles for various MMA events and platforms. His deep understanding of wrestling and grappling, combined with his candid and straightforward style, makes him a valuable voice in the sport. He provides insightful commentary on fights and fighters, sharing his expertise with fans and fellow analysts. Beyond his commentary work, Askren has also ventured into coaching and mentoring aspiring fighters. He shares his knowledge and experience with young athletes, helping them develop their skills and pursue their dreams in combat sports. His coaching reflects his wrestling background and his strategic approach to fighting. Askren's influence extends beyond the cage, as he has become involved in various business ventures and entrepreneurial pursuits. He leverages his platform and his network to explore new opportunities and investments. His business acumen and his understanding of the sports industry make him a valuable asset in these ventures. Askren has also maintained an active presence on social media, where he engages with fans and shares his thoughts on a wide range of topics. He uses his social media platforms to stay connected with the MMA community and to share his personality and perspectives. His social media presence allows him to continue building his brand and to stay relevant in the ever-evolving world of combat sports. Overall, Ben Askren’s post-fighting career is a testament to his adaptability and his ability to reinvent himself. He has successfully transitioned from a competitive athlete to a multifaceted figure in the sports and entertainment world. His contributions to MMA continue through his commentary and coaching, and his entrepreneurial ventures demonstrate his ambition and drive.

Conclusion

Ben Askren's journey is a testament to his resilience, adaptability, and unwavering spirit. From his dominant wrestling career to his transition into MMA and his foray into boxing, Askren has always been one to watch. Guys, it's been quite the ride! His story is not just about wins and losses; it's about the journey and the lessons learned along the way. Askren's impact on the world of combat sports extends beyond his in-ring achievements. He has inspired many with his dedication, his unorthodox style, and his willingness to challenge the status quo. His career serves as a reminder that success is not always defined by the final outcome, but by the effort and passion put forth. As Askren continues to explore new avenues and opportunities, his legacy as a true competitor and a unique personality in combat sports remains secure. His story is a reminder that even after the roar of the crowd fades, there are always new chapters to be written and new challenges to be embraced.