Childhood and Education Journey of Ben Askren in Timeline

Discover the defining moments in the early life of Ben Askren. From birth to education, explore key events.

Ben Askren is a retired American mixed martial artist, professional boxer, and former Olympic wrestler. He achieved notable success in MMA, holding the Welterweight Championships in both Bellator and ONE FC. He was known for his dominant wrestling style and unorthodox striking. Askren also had a brief stint in the UFC before retiring from professional competition.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition

July 18, 1984: Ben Askren is born

On July 18, 1984, Benjamin Michael Askren was born. He would later become an American former professional mixed martial artist, professional boxer, and Olympic wrestler.

Others born on this day/year

2003: Joins Missouri Tigers

In 2003, Ben Askren began his freshman campaign wrestling for the Missouri Tigers at 174 pounds.

2004: Big 12 Conference Championships

In 2004, during his freshman year, Askren won the Big 12 Conference Championships and placed second at the NCAA Championships.

2005: Second at NCAA and Big 12 Championships

In 2005, during his sophomore campaign, Askren placed second at both the NCAA and Big 12 Championships, losing both championship matches to Pendleton.

2006: Earns Dan Hodge Trophy and Schalles Award

In 2006, Askren earned the Dan Hodge Trophy and Schalles Award after compiling a combined 87–0 record during his junior and senior seasons.

2007: Wins Second Dan Hodge Trophy and Schalles Award

In 2007, Askren won his second Dan Hodge Trophy and Schalles Award after compiling a combined 87–0 record during his junior and senior seasons.

2010: Marriage to Amy

In 2010, Askren married his wife Amy and together they have three children.

June 7, 2025: Askren Hospitalized

On June 7, 2025, Amy Askren announced that Askren had been hospitalized with "severe pneumonia" resulting from a staph infection, requiring sedation and potentially a lung transplant.

June 17, 2025: Signs of Improvement

On June 17, 2025, Amy Askren posted that Askren was showing signs of improvement, being "able to open his eyes and squeeze hands", though he remained on a ventilator and an extracorporeal membrane oxygenation system.

June 30, 2025: Receives Lung Transplant

On June 30, 2025, Askren's wife announced that Askren had received a double lung transplant.

July 9, 2025: Askren Discusses Condition

On July 9, 2025, Askren posted a video discussing his condition, mentioning memory loss, flatlining four times, and losing 50 pounds during his illness.