Ben Askren Returns for Wrestling Match After Double Lung Transplant Recovery

From Death’s Door to the Octagon: Askren’s Miraculous Recovery

Askren’s journey back to competition is nothing short of extraordinary. According to MMA Junkie, the 37-year-old fighter was hospitalized for over a month after battling a severe case of pneumonia that nearly claimed his life. During his ordeal, he “died four times” before receiving a double-lung transplant—a medical intervention that left him 50 pounds lighter and facing an uncertain future. Yet, against all odds, Askren has not only survived but is now stepping back into the ring, proving that resilience can transcend even the most dire circumstances.

The physical toll of his recovery is evident. Askren, who once dominated the MMA world with his signature “Funky” persona, has been largely absent from combat sports since his retirement. His only post-retirement bout—a professional boxing match against Jake Paul in 2021—ended in a first-round knockout loss, a stark reminder of how far he had fallen. But this time, he’s not just returning for the spectacle; he’s doing so with a clear mission: to reclaim his legacy under a new flag.

The RAF Gambit: Why Askren Chose a New League

Askren’s move to the Resurrection Fighting Alliance (RAF) is as bold as it is calculated. While the UFC remains the pinnacle of MMA, RAF—a relatively new organization—has positioned itself as a platform for fighters seeking fresh opportunities, particularly those who’ve been overlooked or undervalued by the larger promotions. For Askren, this could be the perfect stage. As MMA Junkie notes, RAF’s willingness to take risks on fighters with compelling backstories—like Askren—makes it an appealing alternative to the UFC’s rigid structure.

The timing of his return is equally telling. Askren’s fight against Belal Muhammad, a former UFC champion himself, is scheduled for June 1, 2026, at UWM Panther Arena in Milwaukee. The match is the co-main event of RAF 11, streamed live on FOX Nation. Muhammad, who recently competed at UFC Fight Night 278, brings his own pedigree to the bout, having faced top-tier competition in the UFC. But for Askren, this isn’t just about proving he can still compete—it’s about proving he can compete *again*.

The stakes are personal. Askren’s career has been defined by comebacks—from his rise to Bellator fame to his brief but impactful UFC tenure. But this return is different. There’s no pressure to “win back” his UFC title or reclaim a championship. Instead, the focus is on sheer survival: Can he still move? Can he still grapple? Can he still endure the physical and mental demands of combat sports after nearly seven years away?

Belal Muhammad: The Perfect Opponent for a Second-Chance Story

Muhammad, Askren’s opponent, is no stranger to high-pressure situations. The 37-year-old, who fought in the UFC’s cruiserweight division, has faced some of the sport’s biggest names, including Daniel Cormier and Jan Błachowicz. His recent bout against Gabriel Bonfim at UFC Fight Night 278 underscored his ability to compete at an elite level. But for Askren, the matchup is more than just a test of skill—it’s a test of endurance.

Freestyle wrestling, the format for this bout, adds another layer of complexity. Unlike MMA, where fighters have years of specialized training, freestyle wrestling demands a different kind of athleticism—one that relies on agility, timing, and raw power. Askren, who has never competed in freestyle wrestling at this level, will need to adapt quickly. His last wrestling experience was in college, where he earned two NCAA Division I titles. But that was over a decade ago.

Muhammad, meanwhile, has experience in wrestling-based formats. His background in amateur wrestling gives him an edge in the technical aspects of the sport. The question is whether Askren’s sheer grit and competitive fire can overcome the years of rust and the physical limitations of his recovery. If he can, it could be a statement not just about his personal resilience, but about the enduring appeal of fighters who refuse to go quietly.

What’s Next for Askren—and the Future of RAF

The implications of Askren’s return extend beyond his personal story. For RAF, booking a fighter of his caliber—even in a non-MMA format—is a bold statement. It signals that the organization is serious about attracting high-profile talent, even if it means stepping outside traditional MMA boundaries. If Askren’s performance is strong, it could pave the way for more crossover events, blending wrestling with MMA in innovative ways.

For Askren, the road ahead is uncertain. While his return to competition is a triumph of the human spirit, the reality of his physical condition remains. The double-lung transplant and the weight loss he endured during his hospitalization are permanent changes. Whether he can sustain a full MMA comeback—or even a wrestling career—remains to be seen. But one thing is clear: Askren is not done fighting.

The fight against Muhammad on June 1, 2026, is just the beginning. If he wins, it could reignite conversations about his legacy in MMA. If he loses, it may still be remembered as one of the most inspiring underdog stories in sports history. Either way, Askren’s return is a reminder that in combat sports—and in life—some stories are never truly over.

One thing is certain: the world will be watching.