Ben Askren, the former UFC, Bellator, and ONE Championship fighter, has successfully received a double lung transplant, according to an update shared by his wife, Amy Askren.
Askren had been hospitalized for several weeks, battling a severe case of pneumonia. Roughly a week prior to this announcement, his wife Amy had shared that Ben was “officially on the transplant list” for his lungs, signaling the critical nature of his condition.
On Monday morning, Amy Askren posted another update on her Facebook page, confirming the successful surgery for her husband.
Sharing the news, Amy wrote: “We are so thankful to share that Ben has received a double lung transplant. We are forever thankful to the donor and his family.” She emphasized the significance of this event, stating, “This is the beginning of a new lifestyle for Ben, but every new day he has is a gift.” Reflecting on the suddenness of his illness, she added, “It still doesn’t feel real that he was walking around completely healthy just 5 weeks ago. So much can change so quickly.” Amy also requested continued prayers for Ben`s body to accept the new lungs and expressed deep gratitude for the widespread support they have received.
She concluded her update by expressing hope that Ben might be able to provide future updates himself, perhaps once he has recovered from the initial effects of the medication.
Askren`s hospitalization stemmed from severe pneumonia that required him to be placed on a ventilator. He was also supported by an ECMO (Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation) machine for lung function. The MMA community has consistently offered prayers and support for Askren during this challenging time, and this news is seen as a significant positive step in his recovery.
Even his past opponent, Jake Paul, had publicly expressed his intention to assist with Askren`s surgery expenses, mentioning it after his boxing win over Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. in Anaheim the previous Saturday.
