Ben Askren health update issued as UFC champion admits mistake

Daily Mirror

a day ago

Ben Askren remains in hospital after former UFC champion Daniel Cormier backtracked on his claim the former fighter had been release
Ben Askren remains in hospital after ex-UFC champion Daniel Cormier backtracked on his claim the fighter had been released to his home.
Askren was rushed to hospital last weekend after taking ill with pneumonia and falling unconcious. With rumours swirling about his health, an incorrect report circulated on social media claiming Askren had died, which was swiftly debunked by fellow UFC icon Cormier, who gave the impression Askren was recuperating at home.
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"Our good friend is having a hard time," Cormier commented. "The last time we did an episode [of their show], Ben was complaining about some issues, he had some infections, he had a really tough time. I want to report to you guys that he's now back home. He's with his family, his beautiful wife Amy and everyone is praying that Ben gets better and we can start moving forward together with life for ben. It's so sad and I don't know how things like this happen in life to people like Ben."
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READ MORE: Ben Askren major health update after MMA star's battle with pneumonia
Despite these positive signs, Askren's wife told TMZ that her husband remains in a perilous state, affirming he is "definitely still fighting" for his life. And Cormier later took to social media to clarify his comments, saying: "He's back in Wisconsin in a hospital. He isn't home. Please keep praying for Ben. I should have been more clear."
David Potter, a former fighter, also addressed the rumours on social media by clarifying: "No. Our friend Ben Askren has not passed away. But the situation is still dire. Praying for him. A hero in the wrestling community, a MMA champion, and a one time boxer, which proved he would do anything, put himself in any situation to take care of his family and kids. Do the right thing and take care of them as well, protect his kids, do not share unconfirmed information.", reports the Mirror.
Askren's early career saw him dominating in promotions like Bellator and ONE FC before he finally made it into the prestigious ranks of the UFC in 2019. He began with a triumph over Robbie Lawler, only to face a spectacular defeat at the hands – or rather, knee – of Jorge Masvidal just five seconds into their match, marking one of the fastest knockouts in UFC history.
Despite that setback, Askren attempted to bounce back against the grappling expert Demian Maia. Unfortunately, he found himself on the losing end once again after being caught in a clinch that led to a submission. Following these battles in the MMA, Askren switched gears in 2021, entering the boxing ring to challenge Jake Paul. The result was another first-round finish for Askren, as the YouTube star-turned-boxer secured the win.
During Askren's time in hospital, his wife of 15 years took to social media to ask fans to keep the fighter in their thoughts and prayers. "Feeling so incredibly thankful for our friends and community. It's times like this that remind you how truly blessed you are," she wrote. I feel God moving through the love and support we have received. I'm sorry if I haven't had the chance to respond to you, but know I've seen your messages, and each one has meant so much to me. Please keep praying for Ben."