Ben Askren Bids Farewell in Emotional Final Match After Near-Death Recovery

Ben Askren closed his competitive career on his 42nd birthday with a 6-3 loss to former UFC fighter Belal Muhammad in Milwaukee. Competing under the Real American Freestyle banner, he honoured a promise to make this his final appearance. Last year, Askren survived severe pneumonia and underwent a double lung transplant. He spent 37 days in a coma and lost nearly a third of his body weight, but his determination brought him back to the mat. Askren leaned on defence and battled through fatigue in the third period. After the match, he thanked fans for their support and reflected on the daily struggle that made this final fight possible. Belal Muhammad praised Askren’s resilience, calling him a legend and an inspiration. Askren’s legacy now rests on his faith, perseverance and the comeback story that went beyond wins and losses.

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