Ben Askren reveals long recovery after double lung transplant and severe pneumonia battle
The former MMA star, known for his world titles in Bellator and ONE Championship and a brief UFC run, revealed he is on a long road to recovery after undergoing a double lung transplant due to a severe bout of pneumonia. The 41-year-old was hospitalized after the infection turned life-threatening, forcing doctors to perform the life-saving procedure.
'I've been home for four days now,' Askren said in a video posted to Instagram. 'It's awesome—I get to sleep in my own bed, eat my own food, hang out with my family. But I've still got so many physical challenges to deal with.' He noted he's down 35 pounds, can't walk unaided, and even struggles to lift a five-pound dumbbell.
Askren, speaking between pauses for breath, said, 'Right before I had to go to the hospital I was able to curl 45 pounds. I was doing hill sprints.' His transformation from peak fitness to post-surgery fragility has been dramatic.
He also shared that his heart stopped four times during the ordeal. 'The ticker stopped for about 20 seconds,' he said. Despite the trauma, Askren remains hopeful. 'I know I'll be somewhere different in a month.'
While Askren faces these new physical challenges, his decorated athletic past highlights just how far he's come. Motivated by the love he received during his crisis, he added, 'It was almost like I got to have my own funeral… The outpouring of love from the wrestling community was just amazing.'
Askren's wife, Amy, previously confirmed the transplant. The couple, married since 2010, have three children. The family has been raising funds to help with the high cost of surgery and recovery.
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