After weeks of worry, there's finally a positive update on Ben Askren. The former UFC welterweight and longtime fan favorite has officially been added to the lung transplant list after a serious fight with pneumonia left him in critical condition.
The “Funky” one has been in the hospital for over three weeks. His wife, Amy Askren, shared an emotional Facebook post confirming the news: “As of late last night, Ben is officially on the transplant list. Please pray that he gets stronger and stays stable as we wait for a donor.” She added that his other organs are in good shape and there’s now a clear plan forward.
Askren isn't speaking much yet, but he’s been alert — even asking for a cup of coffee. “It was such a relief to see him ask for something so everyday,” Amy wrote. “We’re just so thankful his mind is intact.”
Support has poured in from across the MMA world — from fighters and coaches to fans who’ve followed Askren since his days in KSW, ONE Championship, and the UFC. As for a transplant timeline, it’s unclear. Finding a match can take days or even years, depending on various health factors.
It’s a different kind of battle now — but anyone who’s followed Ben Askren knows he doesn’t back down easily. He’s fighting again — and this time, it’s for everything.
