Hospital Discharge Update: Ben Askren Speaks to Fans Post-Release
MMA Veteran Ben Askren Begins Long Road to Recovery After Double Lung Transplant
Ben Askren, a renowned MMA fighter, is currently navigating a challenging recovery process following a double lung transplant in early July 2025. The operation was performed due to life-threatening pneumonia that had hospitalized him around late May.
The ordeal took a heavy toll on Askren's health. He lost an astonishing 50 pounds in just 45 days, dropping to 147 pounds—a weight not seen since his teenage years. During the crisis, his heart stopped four times, with one stoppage lasting approximately 20 seconds.
Three weeks post-surgery, Askren has been home for four days but faces significant physical challenges. He is unable to walk unaided, struggles to lift even a five-pound weight, and has lost 35 pounds from his pre-surgery peak. Despite these setbacks, Askren remains hopeful, expressing optimism about his future, "I know I’ll be somewhere different in a month."
At present, there are no specific details about Askren's plans to return to competitive sports or MMA. Given the severity of his health issues and the early stage of his recovery, an athletic comeback would likely require a prolonged period of rehabilitation and medical clearance. Instead, Askren's focus appears to be on regaining basic strength and mobility.
This recovery process is expected to be a delicate journey that could span many months, if not years, before any serious consideration of physical or athletic activity. As Askren continues to rebuild his health, fans and well-wishers worldwide are rallying behind him, offering their support and encouragement.
Askren's battle for recovery comes amidst the MMA scene, with UFC 320 featuring a title fight between Ankalaev and Dvalishvili. While Askren's absence from the ring is deeply felt, his resilience and determination serve as a testament to the indomitable spirit of the sport.
References: [1] [News Source 1] [2] [News Source 2] [3] [News Source 3]
askren'srecovery journey may benefit from incorporating elements of health-and-wellness, fitness-and-exercise, and mental-health practices, as these are essential components of overall well-being; sports-analysis experts might find it fascinating to study ben askren's road to recovery, as it tackles unique challenges faced by professional athletes after significant health crises; bookmakers may consider the length and complexity of askren's recovery period when making predictions about his return to competitive sports or MMA, given the long-term implications for his career and performances.
