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| Ben Askren |
Introduction
Ben Askren is a name that resonates with wrestling fans, MMA enthusiasts, and combat sports followers alike. Known for his unorthodox fighting style, brash personality, and undeniable dominance in both amateur wrestling and mixed martial arts, Askren carved out a unique legacy in the world of combat sports.
From his collegiate wrestling accolades to his unbeaten streak in MMA and high-profile UFC stint, Askren’s journey is one of perseverance, adaptability, and sheer willpower. In this blog post, we’ll explore his background, career highlights, fighting style, and lasting impact on the sport.
Early Life and Wrestling Career
Collegiate Wrestling Dominance
Before stepping into MMA, Ben Askren was already a force to be reckoned with on the wrestling mats. Born on July 18, 1984, in Hartland, Wisconsin, Askren grew up immersed in wrestling culture. He attended the University of Missouri, where he became one of the most decorated collegiate wrestlers in NCAA history.
Two-time NCAA Division I National Champion (2006, 2007)
Two-time Dan Hodge Trophy winner (considered the Heisman of wrestling)
Record-breaking 87-match win streak
Askren’s wrestling style was unorthodox—he relied heavily on funk wrestling, a creative and unpredictable approach that frustrated opponents. His ability to scramble and control matches made him nearly unbeatable.
Olympic Wrestling and Transition to MMA
After college, Askren pursued freestyle wrestling, representing the U.S. at the 2008 Beijing Olympics. Though he didn’t medal, his wrestling credentials were undeniable. By 2009, he shifted his focus to mixed martial arts, where his grappling expertise would become a major asset.
MMA Career: Undefeated Reign in Bellator and ONE Championship
Bellator Welterweight Champion
Askren made his professional MMA debut in 2009 and quickly rose through the ranks with his suffocating wrestling and ground control. He signed with Bellator MMA, where he became the promotion’s welterweight champion.
Key highlights:
Undefeated in Bellator (9-0)
Successful title defenses against top contenders
Known for his smothering top game and relentless pressure
Askren’s style wasn’t flashy, but it was brutally effective. He would take opponents down, wear them out, and either grind out decisions or secure submissions.
Dominance in ONE Championship
After contract disputes with Bellator, Askren moved to ONE Championship in 2014, where he continued his dominance.
Remained undefeated (6-0 in ONE)
Captured the ONE Welterweight Championship
Finished most of his fights via TKO or submission
His ability to control fights with wrestling made him one of the most feared grapplers in MMA. However, critics argued that he hadn’t faced elite strikers, which led to questions about how he’d fare against top-tier UFC competition.
The UFC Stint: Highs, Lows, and Memorable Moments
The Trade That Shook MMA
In 2018, Askren was part of a historic trade between ONE Championship and the UFC, where Demetrious Johnson went to ONE in exchange for Askren. The move generated massive hype, as fans finally got to see how Askren would perform against the best in the world.
Controversial Win Over Robbie Lawler
Askren’s UFC debut at UFC 235 against former champion Robbie Lawler was chaotic. Lawler slammed him early and nearly finished him, but Askren survived and locked in a bulldog choke that forced a controversial stoppage. Many believed Lawler hadn’t tapped, but the win stood.
The Fastest KO in UFC History (Against Him)
Askren’s next fight was against Jorge Masvidal at UFC 239. In just five seconds, Masvidal sprinted across the cage and landed a flying knee, knocking Askren out cold. It remains the fastest KO in UFC history and became one of the most viral MMA moments ever.
Final UFC Fight and Retirement
After a submission loss to Demian Maia, Askren retired from MMA in 2019 with a record of 19-2. While his UFC run was brief, it was unforgettable—filled with drama, highlight-reel moments, and a testament to his willingness to take on all challenges.
Fighting Style: The Funky Wrestling Phenom
Askren’s MMA approach was built around his wrestling, but it wasn’t conventional. Here’s what made him unique:
Relentless Takedowns – He had an uncanny ability to close the distance and drag fights to the mat.
Unorthodox Grappling – His "funk wrestling" background allowed him to scramble in ways most fighters couldn’t anticipate.
Pressure-Based Fighting – He wore opponents down with constant control, leading to late finishes or dominant decisions.
However, his striking was often criticized, and his defensive flaws were exposed against elite strikers like Masvidal.
Life After MMA: Coaching, Podcasting, and More
Since retiring, Askren has stayed active in combat sports:
Coaching Wrestling – He returned to his roots, training young wrestlers and sharing his expertise.
Boxing Match vs. Jake Paul – In 2021, Askren took on YouTuber Jake Paul in a boxing match, losing by TKO but earning a hefty payday.
Podcasting & Commentary – Known for his unfiltered opinions, Askren co-hosts podcasts and provides MMA analysis.
Legacy: How Ben Askren Changed the Game
Ben Askren may not have been the most polished striker, but his impact on MMA is undeniable:
Proved Wrestling’s Effectiveness – He showcased how elite grappling could dominate in MMA.
Brought Entertainment – Whether through his trash talk or wild fights, Askren was always must-watch.
Inspired Grinders – His workmanlike approach inspired fighters who rely on toughness and technique over flashiness.
Final Thoughts
Ben Askren’s career was anything but ordinary. From his wrestling dominance to his polarizing MMA run, he left an indelible mark on combat sports. While his UFC stint had highs and lows, his fearlessness and authenticity made him a fan favorite.
Whether you remember him for his unbeaten streak, his viral knockout loss, or his unfiltered personality, one thing’s for sure—Ben Askren was always true to himself, and that’s why he remains a legend.
What’s your favorite Ben Askren moment? Let us know in the comments!
FAQ Section
1. Was Ben Askren ever undefeated in MMA?Yes! Before joining the UFC, Askren was 19-0, dominating in Bellator and ONE Championship with his elite wrestling and ground control.
2. Why is Ben Askren famous in the UFC if he only had 3 fights?
Despite his short UFC stint, Askren was involved in two of the most viral moments in MMA history—his controversial win over Robbie Lawler and his record 5-second KO loss to Jorge Masvidal.
3. What is "funk wrestling," and how did Askren use it in MMA?
Funk wrestling is an unorthodox, scramble-heavy style. Askren used it to confuse opponents, reverse positions, and maintain control—making him nearly unstoppable on the ground.
4. Did Ben Askren fight Jake Paul?
Yes! After retiring from MMA, Askren boxed Jake Paul in 2021, losing by TKO but earning a massive payday.
5. Why did Ben Askren retire?
Following losses to Jorge Masvidal and Demian Maia, Askren retired in 2019 due to hip injuries and a desire to focus on coaching and podcasting.
6. What is Ben Askren doing now?
He trains wrestlers, co-hosts MMA podcasts, and occasionally comments on combat sports—still sharing his unfiltered opinions!
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