Ben Askren’s Hardest Fight: Triumph After Near-Death Double Lung Transplant

🥊 Ben Askren’s Hardest Fight: Triumph After Near-Death Double Lung Transplant

July 2025 | USA — Former UFC welterweight champion and Olympic wrestler Ben “Funky” Askren has faced many tough opponents in the octagon—but none as dangerous as the one he recently battled: death itself. After suffering from severe pneumonia and undergoing a double lung transplant, Askren is now home and recovering, thanks in large part to the help of the MMA community.

🩺 From Staph Infection to Life Support

Askren’s ordeal began with what seemed like a persistent staph infection, which quickly spiraled into aggressive pneumonia. His lungs deteriorated so rapidly that he required ECMO (a machine that oxygenates blood outside the body) and mechanical ventilation. Doctors declared his lungs were no longer viable.

As reported by Hindustan Times, the situation became so dire that his wife, Amy Askren, had to publicly plead for help when their insurance denied the high-cost transplant. The MMA world responded swiftly.

💰 A Shocking Ally: Jake Paul

In an unexpected turn, Jake Paul, Askren’s former rival who famously knocked him out in a 2021 boxing match, donated $500,000 towards Askren’s transplant. The gesture inspired fans, fighters, and organizations across the globe to contribute. Askren underwent the double lung transplant on June 30, 2025.

In his emotional video after returning home, Askren acknowledged Jake Paul and others who donated:

“Jake Paul, of all people, helped save my life. That’s something I’ll never forget.”
Read the full account on Yahoo Entertainment.

🕰️ “I Died Four Times”

On July 9, Askren released an Instagram video detailing just how close he came to death:

His heart stopped four times, each time for around 20 seconds.
He had no memory for over 35 days and only learned what happened by reading Amy’s journal.
He lost nearly 50 pounds, shrinking to 147 pounds, his lowest weight since childhood.

Askren described the experience as terrifying but said he’s grateful to be alive. His full story was featured on USA Today.

🏠 Recovery Begins After 59 Days in Hospital

After 59 days, Ben Askren was finally discharged from the hospital. He’s now home, re-learning how to walk and building back his strength. In a car ride video shot just hours after release, he said:

“I still can’t believe I survived this. I couldn’t walk yesterday. But I’m alive. That’s enough to fight for.”

Askren also thanked Dana White, Jorge Masvidal, and his fans. In a Times of India article, he declared:

“I’m going to work my as off. I don’t want to feel sorry for myself.”*

💪 Support From Rivals and Fans

Askren’s story united even his fiercest rivals:

Jake Paul called him “one of the toughest fighters alive.”
Jorge Masvidal, who once delivered a historic knockout to Askren in UFC, posted a heartfelt message wishing him a full recovery.
Fans from around the world sent letters, donations, and emotional tributes.

As shown in this TalkSPORT report, Askren was moved to tears by the outpouring of love.

🔍 What’s Next for Askren?

The road ahead is long:

He’s undergoing intensive rehabilitation to rebuild basic mobility.
He is on lifelong medication and faces a tough mental recovery too.
Despite everything, Askren remains optimistic. He’s already planning to write about his experience and inspire others.

As quoted in Times of India:

“If you’re reading this, don’t take life for granted. Hug your loved ones.”

✅ Summary Table

Category	Details
Medical Emergency	Pneumonia from staph infection, ECMO support
Surgery	Double lung transplant on June 30, 2025
Critical Moments	Cardiac arrest 4 times, memory loss, 50 lbs lost
Recovery Timeline	59 days in hospital, now recovering at home
Community Support	$500K from Jake Paul, massive global response
Mental Resilience	Askren vows to fight back and share his story

📚 Sources:

Hindustan Times
Yahoo Entertainment
USA Today
Times of India (Jake & Dana Tribute)
Times of India (Ride Home Update)
TalkSPORT

🟩 People Also Ask: Ben Askren & Double Lung Transplant

❓ Why did Ben Askren need a double lung transplant? & ❓ What happened to Ben Askren’s lungs?

Ben Askren required a double lung transplant after a severe staph infection caused aggressive pneumonia, which led to irreversible lung damage and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). His lungs could no longer perform oxygen exchange and failed despite ECMO and ventilator support, making transplant the only option for survival Yahoo Sports+10Legal United States+10Northeastern Global News+10.

❓ Who paid for Ben Askren’s lung surgery?

Askren’s transplant cost—estimated at around $1.3 million in the U.S.—was funded after insurance denied coverage. His wife Amy launched a public appeal, and fellow MMA fighter Jake Paul donated $500,000, prompting widespread community contributions Wikipedia+4MMAmania.com+4Talksport+4.

❓ How long can a person live after a double lung transplant?

Survival rates vary by individual and condition. Studies show:

Approximately 88% survive the first year
About 60% survive five years
Median survival typically sits around 6 to 7 years, though some patients live 10, 15, or even over 20 years with proper care and follow-up Wikipedia+7Verywell Health+7Calendar UK+7.

❓ What is the cost of a lung transplant?

In the U.S., the estimated total cost before insurance for a double lung transplant is around $1.3 million. This covers surgery, hospitalization, and early postoperative care. Actual costs vary depending on insurance, location, and additional treatments MMAmania.com.