Ben Askren's Journey From Wrestling To MMA And His Life After Fighting

Hey guys! Ever wondered what happened to Ben Askren? This is a question many MMA fans have been asking, especially after his rather abrupt departure from the sport. Ben Askren, also known as "Funky," was one of the most intriguing and polarizing figures in mixed martial arts. His unique wrestling style, coupled with his outspoken personality, made him a fan favorite and a fighter that everyone loved to watch – whether they were cheering him on or rooting for his opponent. But what exactly led to his retirement, and what has he been up to since? Let's dive into the fascinating journey of Ben Askren, from his wrestling days to his MMA career and his life after fighting.

Ben Askren's Wrestling Roots and Early Career

Ben Askren's journey to MMA stardom began long before he ever stepped into a cage. His background in wrestling laid the foundation for his unique fighting style and his relentless approach to competition. Askren was an accomplished wrestler, achieving significant success at both the collegiate and international levels. His wrestling pedigree is something that defined his MMA career, so it's important to understand where he came from.

Askren's wrestling career started in high school, where he quickly established himself as a formidable competitor. His unorthodox style, characterized by his relentless pressure and scrambling ability, set him apart from his peers. This unique approach to wrestling earned him a scholarship to the University of Missouri, where he continued to excel. It was in college that Askren truly cemented his legacy as one of the greatest wrestlers in NCAA history. He became a two-time NCAA Division I National Champion, winning titles in 2006 and 2007. His wrestling style, often described as "funky" due to its unconventional nature, baffled opponents and made him a constant threat on the mat. His ability to control matches and impose his will on his opponents was a testament to his dedication and skill. Askren's accomplishments in college wrestling are a testament to his work ethic, and his transition to MMA was highly anticipated by many who followed his wrestling career. His folkstyle wrestling background was always present in his MMA fights, as he always looked to take his opponents down and control them on the ground. This became his signature style, and opponents knew that to beat Askren, they would have to somehow nullify his wrestling.

Beyond his NCAA success, Askren also represented the United States in international wrestling competitions. He competed at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, showcasing his skills on the world's biggest stage. While he didn't medal at the Olympics, the experience further solidified his reputation as an elite wrestler. His international wrestling experience taught him valuable lessons about competition and the mental toughness required to succeed at the highest levels. These lessons would prove invaluable as he transitioned into the world of mixed martial arts. The discipline and strategic thinking he developed as a wrestler translated seamlessly into his MMA career, giving him a distinct advantage over many of his opponents. Askren's wrestling career is a crucial part of his story, setting the stage for his eventual foray into MMA. His success on the wrestling mat demonstrated his competitive spirit and his ability to master a physically and mentally demanding sport. This foundation of wrestling excellence would shape his approach to fighting and make him a force to be reckoned with in the world of MMA.

The Transition to MMA and Early Successes

After his decorated wrestling career, Ben Askren made the transition to mixed martial arts, a move that excited many fans who were eager to see how his unique style would translate to the cage. His decision to enter the world of MMA was a natural progression for a competitor of his caliber, and he quickly set about making a name for himself in the sport. Askren's transition was seamless, and he quickly adapted his wrestling skills to the MMA environment.

Askren began his professional MMA career in 2009, signing with Bellator Fighting Championships. He quickly made an impact, showcasing his dominant wrestling and grappling skills. His early fights were a testament to his ability to control opponents on the ground and secure victories. His wrestling background gave him a significant advantage, as he was able to take down opponents at will and dictate the pace of the fight. Opponents found it incredibly difficult to deal with Askren's relentless pressure and his ability to transition between positions on the ground. His early success in Bellator demonstrated his potential and marked him as a rising star in the MMA world. Askren's approach to fighting was methodical and strategic, focusing on neutralizing his opponent's strengths while maximizing his own. He wasn't always the most exciting fighter to watch, but he was incredibly effective. This pragmatic approach to fighting earned him both fans and critics, but there was no denying his success.

In 2010, Askren won the Bellator Welterweight Championship, defeating Lyman Good in a dominant performance. This victory solidified his status as one of the top welterweights in the world. Winning the Bellator title was a significant achievement, and it validated Askren's decision to pursue a career in MMA. His championship reign in Bellator further enhanced his reputation and made him a highly sought-after fighter. Askren's time in Bellator was marked by consistent success, and he defended his title multiple times, further establishing his dominance in the division. His performances demonstrated his relentless pursuit of victory and his ability to impose his will on his opponents. Despite his success, Askren's time in Bellator wasn't without controversy. His fighting style, while effective, was sometimes criticized for being overly focused on grappling and lacking in striking. However, his results spoke for themselves, and he remained the champion until his departure from the promotion. Askren's early MMA career was defined by his ability to translate his wrestling skills into a successful fighting style. His time in Bellator showcased his potential and set the stage for his future endeavors in the sport. He proved that a wrestling-heavy approach could be incredibly effective in MMA, and he paved the way for other wrestlers to follow in his footsteps.

Strikeforce and ONE Championship

Following his time in Bellator, Ben Askren signed with Strikeforce, another prominent MMA promotion. His stint in Strikeforce was relatively short, but it provided him with another platform to showcase his skills. After Strikeforce, Askren joined ONE Championship, a major MMA organization in Asia. This move would prove to be a pivotal moment in his career. His time in ONE Championship saw him achieve considerable success and further establish himself as a top welterweight in the world.

In ONE Championship, Askren continued his dominant run, winning the ONE Welterweight Championship and defending it multiple times. His performances in ONE Championship solidified his reputation as one of the best welterweights outside of the UFC. Winning the ONE Championship title was a significant accomplishment, and it demonstrated Askren's ability to compete at the highest level on a global stage. His reign as champion in ONE Championship was marked by impressive victories and further refinement of his fighting style. Askren's time in ONE Championship allowed him to compete against a diverse range of opponents and further develop his skills. His wrestling-heavy approach continued to be effective, and he showcased his ability to control fights and secure finishes. His success in ONE Championship also raised his profile internationally, making him a recognizable figure in the MMA world. Askren's time in ONE Championship was a testament to his dedication and his ability to adapt to different fighting styles and environments. His performances solidified his legacy as one of the top welterweights of his generation, and they paved the way for his eventual move to the UFC. Despite competing outside of the UFC for much of his career, Askren remained a highly regarded fighter, and his success in ONE Championship only added to his mystique. His achievements in ONE Championship demonstrated his commitment to the sport and his relentless pursuit of excellence.

The UFC and Retirement

The pinnacle of many MMA fighters' careers is often seen as competing in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), and Ben Askren was no exception. His highly anticipated arrival in the UFC came via a historic trade with ONE Championship, which sent former UFC Flyweight Champion Demetrious Johnson in the opposite direction. This trade generated considerable buzz in the MMA world, and fans were eager to see how Askren would fare against the UFC's top welterweights. The trade itself was a landmark event, highlighting the global nature of MMA and the willingness of organizations to make bold moves to acquire top talent. Askren's arrival in the UFC was met with a mix of excitement and skepticism, as some questioned whether his wrestling-heavy style would be as effective against the UFC's elite fighters.

Askren's UFC debut was a memorable one, albeit controversial. He faced former UFC Welterweight Champion Robbie Lawler in a fight that many believed would be a litmus test for Askren's potential in the promotion. The fight started off rough for Askren, as Lawler came out aggressively and inflicted significant damage. However, Askren weathered the storm and managed to secure a bulldog choke, a submission that appeared to render Lawler unconscious. The referee stopped the fight, awarding Askren the victory, but the stoppage was immediately disputed by Lawler and many observers, who felt that Lawler had not fully lost consciousness. The controversy surrounding the stoppage overshadowed Askren's victory and fueled debate about his true potential in the UFC. Despite the controversy, the win over Lawler was a significant one, demonstrating Askren's resilience and his ability to find a way to win, even when facing adversity. However, it also highlighted some potential vulnerabilities in his game, particularly his striking defense.

Following the Lawler fight, Askren faced Jorge Masvidal at UFC 239. This fight would be a turning point in Askren's career, and it ended in spectacular fashion. 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 was a shocking and definitive defeat for Askren, and it raised serious questions about his ability to compete at the highest level in the UFC. The loss to Masvidal was a humbling experience for Askren, and it forced him to confront the limitations of his fighting style. It also demonstrated the importance of striking in MMA and the dangers of relying too heavily on wrestling.

Askren's final fight in the UFC was against Demian Maia, a renowned grappler and submission specialist. The fight was a grappling-heavy affair, as expected, and Maia ultimately submitted Askren with a rear-naked choke in the third round. This loss marked Askren's second consecutive defeat in the UFC, and it further diminished his standing in the welterweight division. The loss to Maia underscored the challenges Askren faced against high-level grapplers in the UFC. While Askren was an excellent wrestler, his submission defense proved to be a weakness against Maia, who is considered one of the best submission artists in MMA history.

Shortly after the loss to Maia, Ben Askren announced his retirement from MMA. Citing a hip injury that had been nagging him for some time, Askren stated that he could no longer compete at the highest level. His retirement marked the end of a unique and often controversial career in MMA. Askren's decision to retire was met with mixed reactions, as some fans were disappointed to see him go, while others felt that it was the right time for him to step away from the sport. His career in the UFC was ultimately short and unsuccessful, but it didn't diminish his accomplishments in other organizations. Askren's impact on MMA extends beyond his win-loss record, as he was a polarizing figure who generated discussion and debate about fighting styles and the sport itself. His legacy is complex, but he will be remembered as one of the most unique and intriguing fighters of his generation.

Life After Fighting: What is Ben Askren Doing Now?

So, what is Ben Askren doing now? While his MMA career may be over, Ben Askren has remained active and engaged in various endeavors. He has transitioned into coaching, commentary, and other ventures within and outside the MMA world. Askren's post-fighting career has been diverse and multifaceted, reflecting his varied interests and his entrepreneurial spirit.

Askren has been involved in coaching wrestling and MMA, sharing his knowledge and experience with the next generation of fighters. His coaching roles have allowed him to stay connected to the sport he loves and to contribute to the development of young athletes. Askren's unique wrestling style and his strategic approach to fighting make him a valuable asset as a coach. He has worked with several fighters, helping them to improve their wrestling skills and their overall MMA game. Coaching has also provided Askren with a way to remain involved in the competitive aspects of MMA without having to endure the physical demands of fighting. His passion for the sport is evident in his coaching, and he is dedicated to helping his students achieve their goals.

He has also worked as an MMA analyst and commentator, providing his insights and opinions on fights and fighters. His commentary work has allowed him to share his perspectives on the sport with a wider audience. Askren's knowledge of wrestling and grappling, combined with his articulate and engaging speaking style, make him a natural fit for commentary. He has provided analysis for various MMA events and platforms, offering fans a unique and informed perspective on the action. His commentary is often insightful and entertaining, and he is not afraid to share his honest opinions, even if they are controversial. Askren's commentary work has further cemented his status as a prominent figure in the MMA community, and it has allowed him to stay connected to the sport in a different capacity.

Beyond MMA, Askren has also pursued entrepreneurial ventures, including real estate and other business opportunities. His business acumen and his willingness to take risks have served him well in his post-fighting career. Askren's entrepreneurial endeavors demonstrate his ambition and his desire to succeed in various fields. He has shown a keen eye for identifying opportunities and a willingness to invest in ventures that he believes in. His success in business is a testament to his work ethic and his ability to apply the same discipline and determination that he displayed in his fighting career. Askren's transition into the business world has been seamless, and he continues to explore new avenues for growth and success.

Ben Askren remains a prominent figure in the MMA community, even after his retirement. He frequently engages with fans on social media and offers his opinions on the latest happenings in the sport. Askren's social media presence is a reflection of his personality – he is outspoken, opinionated, and not afraid to engage in debate. His interactions with fans are often entertaining and informative, and he has built a strong following on various social media platforms. Askren's willingness to share his thoughts and engage with fans has helped him to maintain his relevance in the MMA world, even after his retirement. He continues to be a voice in the sport, and his opinions are often sought out by fans and media alike.

In conclusion, Ben Askren's journey in MMA was a unique and fascinating one. From his wrestling roots to his championship success in Bellator and ONE Championship, and his brief but eventful stint in the UFC, Askren left an indelible mark on the sport. While his retirement may have come sooner than some expected, he has transitioned into a successful post-fighting career, remaining active in coaching, commentary, and various business ventures. Ben Askren's story is a testament to his resilience, his competitive spirit, and his ability to adapt and thrive in different environments. He will be remembered as one of the most intriguing and polarizing figures in MMA history. So, to answer the question, what happened to Ben Askren? He retired from fighting due to injury but has remained active in the MMA community and beyond, proving that his competitive spirit and drive for success extend far beyond the cage.