Discover the inspiring journey of Ben Askren, Olympic wrestler, MMA world champion, and professional boxer. Explore his career highlights in Bellator, ONE Championship, UFC, and his foray into boxing.
1. Early Life and Wrestling Career
1. Early Life and Wrestling Career
Ben Askren was born in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and raised in Wisconsin. A standout in amateur wrestling, he competed for the University of Missouri and became a two-time NCAA Division I national champion and a four-time finalist. Askren was also known for his innovative and funky wrestling style, earning him the nickname “Funky Ben.”
Ben Askren amateur success led to a spot on the 2008 U.S. Olympic wrestling team, where he represented the United States in Beijing. Although he did not medal, Askren’s Olympic experience cemented his status as one of the top wrestlers in the nation.
2. Transition to MMA
Following the Olympics, Askren made the jump to professional MMA in 2009. His wrestling foundation gave him a major edge over many of his opponents. Askren quickly compiled an undefeated record and drew attention for his dominance on the ground.
His unique style—centered around pressure, control, and relentless grappling—made him a polarizing figure. Some critics called his fights boring, but his effectiveness was undeniable.
3. Dominance in Bellator and ONE Championship
Ben Askren signed with Bellator MMA in 2010 and quickly became the organization’s welterweight champion. He defended the title successfully multiple times before leaving the promotion undefeated.
In 2014, Askren signed with ONE Championship, where he continued his reign of dominance. He captured the ONE Welterweight World Championship and defended it successfully, further establishing his status as one of the best welterweights outside the UFC. He retired briefly in 2017 with an undefeated record of 18-0 (1 NC).
4. UFC Career and Retirement
Askren made his long-awaited UFC debut in 2019 after a historic trade between the UFC and ONE Championship, involving Demetrious Johnson. He faced Robbie Lawler in his debut and won via controversial technical submission.
Askren’s UFC run was short but eventful. In his next fight, he suffered a brutal five-second knockout loss to Jorge Masvidal—the fastest KO in UFC history. After another loss to Demian Maia, Askren announced his retirement from MMA in 2019.
5. Askren’s Foray into Boxing
In 2021, Askren came out of retirement for a high-profile boxing match against YouTuber Jake Paul. Although he trained for the bout, Askren was knocked out in the first round, sparking debates over MMA fighters entering boxing.
While the fight didn’t go his way, it underscored his willingness to take risks and remain relevant in the combat sports world.
6. Legacy and Personal Life
Ben Askren may not have had a long UFC career, but his legacy is secure. He’s respected for his incredible wrestling credentials, undefeated streak in major MMA promotions, and his role in elevating the sport outside the UFC.
Outside the cage, Askren is known for his work as a wrestling coach, podcaster, and motivational speaker. He runs Askren Wrestling Academy, helping young athletes develop elite wrestling skills.
Askren is also active on social media, where he shares insights on MMA, fitness, and family life. He lives in Wisconsin with his wife Amy and their three children.
Conclusion
Ben Askren’s career is a testament to what pure wrestling skill, mental toughness, and self-belief can achieve in combat sports. From dominating on the wrestling mat to claiming world titles in MMA and testing his limits in boxing, Askren’s story is one of courage and curiosity. Whether you loved or hated his style, Ben Askren was never afraid to be different—and that’s what made him unforgettable.