Ben Askren: Latest UFC News & Updates

What's up, fight fans! Today, we're diving deep into the world of one of the most unique and, let's be honest, entertaining personalities the UFC has ever seen: Ben Askren. Known for his ridiculous wrestling background and a style that often left opponents scratching their heads, "Funky" Ben carved out a memorable, albeit brief, stint in the Octagon. We're going to break down his journey, his biggest moments, and what he's been up to since hanging up the gloves. So grab your favorite fight snack, settle in, and let's get started!

The "Funky" Arrival in the UFC

When Ben Askren officially signed with the UFC, the fight community was buzzing. This wasn't just any signing; this was a major acquisition of a fighter who had dominated other promotions like ONE Championship and Bellator. Askren was an undefeated phenom, a four-time NCAA All-American and a two-time national champion wrestler. His reputation preceded him, with many expecting him to steamroll the UFC's welterweight division with his relentless grappling. His arrival promised a clash of styles, a real test for the established elite. The UFC brass saw a star, and the fans were eager to see if his otherworldly wrestling could translate against the best strikers and submission artists in the world. Ben Askren's wrestling was legendary, a suffocating blanket that few could escape. He had a way of controlling opponents, draining their energy, and making them uncomfortable in ways most fighters never experienced. This wasn't just about takedowns; it was about control. He'd pin guys against the cage, sap their will, and then, when they were tired, look for the finish. It was a formula that had worked everywhere else, and the anticipation was palpable: would it work in the biggest promotion of them all? The early build-up was intense, with Askren himself never shying away from controversial or bold statements, adding fuel to the already blazing fire of fan interest.

The Askren vs. Lawler Debut: A Controversial Start

Ben Askren's UFC debut couldn't have been more dramatic. He was thrown straight into the fire against the seasoned and dangerous Robbie Lawler. The fight itself was a rollercoaster. Lawler came out strong, landing some heavy shots and even hurting Askren. Many thought the "Funky" one was in trouble. But then, in a moment that had everyone talking, Askren secured a crucial takedown. The fight continued, and in the second round, Askren hit a bulldog choke to get the submission victory. However, the stoppage was highly controversial. Referee Herb Dean's decision to stop the fight while Lawler seemed to be intelligently defending, or at least not completely out, sparked immediate debate. Was it a premature stoppage? Did Lawler tap? Did he not tap? The replay showed Lawler's arm moving, but the visual of him seemingly looking at the referee before Dean stepped in left many fans and analysts divided. This controversial win, while technically a victory for Ben Askren, didn't give him the clean, dominant debut many had expected. It was a talking point that lingered, and it set the stage for the rest of his UFC run. He had won, yes, but the circumstances left a bitter taste for some, while others lauded his resilience and ability to find a way to win even when things got tough. It was a baptism by fire, and the flames were scorching.

The Masvidal Knockout: A Career-Altering Moment

Sadly for Ben Askren, his UFC tenure took a sharp and brutal turn in his next outing. He faced another dangerous welterweight, Jorge Masvidal, at UFC 239. What followed was one of the most shocking knockouts in UFC history. From the opening bell, Masvidal charged forward, and Askren attempted a flying knee. Masvidal, however, met him with a flying knee of his own. The impact was instantaneous and devastating. Askren was knocked clean out just five seconds into the fight, setting a new record for the fastest knockout in UFC history. This single moment became the defining image of Askren's UFC career for many. It was a brutal reminder of the unforgiving nature of MMA, where even the most skilled wrestlers can be caught by a perfectly timed strike. The knockout sent shockwaves through the MMA world. Masvidal's star power skyrocketed, while Askren was left to pick up the pieces. It was a humbling experience, to say the least, and it cast a long shadow over his previous achievements. The highlight reel finish was replayed countless times, cementing its place in MMA lore. For Askren, it was a stark contrast to his methodical, wrestling-heavy approach. He went from a controversial submission win to arguably the most definitive knockout loss imaginable. It was a moment that highlighted the high stakes and the unpredictability of professional mixed martial arts, proving that no matter your background or accolades, you're always just one second away from the canvas.

Life After the UFC: The Boxing Switch and Beyond

After the devastating knockout loss to Masvidal, Ben Askren fought one more time in the UFC, losing a decision to Demian Maia. It became clear that the brutal nature of the UFC welterweight division, especially after the Masvidal incident, was taking its toll. He officially announced his retirement from mixed martial arts shortly after. But "Funky" Ben wasn't one to stay away from the spotlight or competition for long. He soon transitioned to the world of boxing, taking on Jake Paul in a highly publicized exhibition bout. While Askren lost that fight via a first-round knockout, it further cemented his status as a crossover star who wasn't afraid to test himself in different arenas. His post-UFC career has seen him become a prominent analyst, podcaster, and businessman. He's remained an active voice in the combat sports community, offering his insights and opinions on fights and fighters. Ben Askren has shown that his influence extends far beyond his time inside the Octagon. He's a smart individual who understands the entertainment aspect of fighting and has successfully leveraged his unique personality and background to build a brand that resonates with fans. Whether he was wrestling opponents to the ground or engaging in spicy post-fight interviews, Askren always provided value and entertainment. His journey from NCAA champion to UFC contender to retired fighter turned media personality is a testament to his adaptability and enduring appeal. He’s still very much a part of the fight game, just in a different capacity, proving that his impact on MMA and combat sports is far from over. It's inspiring to see how he's navigated the challenges and embraced new opportunities, truly embodying the "Funky" spirit outside the cage.

The Legacy of "Funky" Ben Askren

So, what's the lasting legacy of Ben Askren in the UFC? It's complicated, but undeniably memorable. He might not have achieved the championship success many predicted, and his UFC record (1-2 with 1 NC) doesn't tell the full story of his dominance elsewhere. However, Askren brought something unique to the promotion: an unparalleled wrestling pedigree combined with a personality that couldn't be ignored. He was unapologetically himself, whether he was talking trash, showcasing his grappling, or dealing with controversial decisions. He challenged norms and forced fans and fighters alike to reconsider the limits of what could be achieved in MMA. His fights were often a strategic chess match, a testament to his cerebral approach to the sport. While the highlight-reel knockout loss might be what many remember most, it shouldn't overshadow his incredible career before the UFC. Ben Askren was a pioneer in many ways, proving that a pure wrestling base could be a formidable weapon in modern MMA. He leaves behind a legacy of grit, determination, and a whole lot of "funk." He was a fighter who dared to be different, and for that, he'll always have a special place in the hearts of hardcore MMA fans. His willingness to step into the cage against anyone, despite the risks, is a testament to his warrior spirit. Ben Askren truly was one of a kind, and the Octagon was definitely a more interesting place with him in it. We'll always be watching to see what "Funky" Ben does next, because knowing him, it's bound to be something entertaining!