The combat sports world has been sending their support to Ben Askren and his family during their time of need.
In June, news shockingly broke that Askren was in critical condition as he battled a severe staph infection and pneumonia.
The likes of Daniel Cormier provided updates on Askren’s behalf before the former UFC fighter had woken up and was able to speak on what he has been going through.
While he is still recovering from his health scare, regular positive developments have come out regarding his status and double lung transplant.
Throughout this time, some huge names in the combat sports world have shown their support for Askren, including two of his former rivals.
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Ben Askren was stunned by Jorge Masvidal and Jake Paul’s support
Ben Askren’s latest update via social media showed the stunning body transformation that he has gone through after being in great physical shape before he fell ill.
The former UFC fighter also recently spoke about his current status via his first interview since being hospitalized.
Over the past two months, some of Askren’s greatest rivals from his career have publicly sent their support to the 41-year-old and his family.
Jorge Masvidal sent a heartfelt message while Jake Paul has consistently spoken about wanting to help Askren however he can.
Speaking to TMZ, the former fighter, who faced Masvidal in the Octagon and Paul in the ring, mentioned both of them reaching out to him when he was asked whether he has received more support now than he did for any of his sporting accomplishments.
“I would say it’s from a broader audience. I was always kind of controversial so there was always quite a few people who… (Askren’s audio cut out). Man, I got only positive messages. Like Jorge Masvidal and Jake Paul both messaged me. I was like, ‘Where the hell’s that come from?’ The support was insanely broad across the board.”
Ben Askren says it’s ‘sad’ he won’t get to compete again after looking forward to a return
The likes of Dana White recently paid tribute to Hulk Hogan following the WWE star’s recent passing.
When this was brought up during the interview, Ben Askren reflected on how he was supposed to compete for Hogan’s freestyle wrestling promotion which has signed some of the biggest names in the sport.
Unfortunately, Askren admitted that this is no longer a possibility for him, though he has been incredibly grateful to have spent more time with his family in recent weeks.
“Yeah, Real American Freestyle. I was also going to wrestle and I was so excited about that. But with this, I’m never gonna wrestle again. It’s kind of sad.”