Ben Askren: From UFC Hopeful To MMA Legend

Hey guys! Let's dive into the wild ride of Ben Askren, a name that sparks debates and brings back memories of some unforgettable moments in the world of MMA. While he never actually clinched the UFC champion title, his journey is one heck of a story worth exploring. So, buckle up as we unpack the career, the controversies, and the legacy of Ben Askren.

The Wrestling Roots of "Funky"

Before we even get to the octagon, it's crucial to understand where Ben Askren came from. Wrestling was his bread and butter, and boy, was he good at it! Two-time NCAA Division I National Champion, an Olympian – the accolades speak volumes. His unique, some might even say 'funky', style of wrestling set him apart. Forget the textbook techniques; Askren was all about control, awkward angles, and relentless pressure. This wrestling foundation wasn't just a skill; it was his identity, shaping his entire approach to MMA. This background instilled in him a relentless work ethic and a strategic mind, attributes that would become hallmarks of his fighting career. Askren's wrestling prowess allowed him to dictate the pace and location of his fights, often nullifying the striking abilities of his opponents. His ability to secure takedowns and maintain top control made him a formidable force, frustrating many who stepped into the cage with him. Beyond the physical skills, wrestling taught Askren the importance of mental toughness and the ability to perform under pressure, qualities that would serve him well in the high-stakes world of professional fighting. It's safe to say that without his wrestling pedigree, the "Funky" Ben Askren we know and love (or love to hate) wouldn't exist.

MMA Beginnings and the Rise to Prominence

Transitioning to MMA, Askren quickly made waves. His wrestling base proved to be a nightmare for opponents, and he racked up wins in Bellator and ONE Championship. In Bellator, he captured the Welterweight title and defended it multiple times, showcasing his dominance outside the UFC. Then came his stint in ONE Championship, where he also claimed the Welterweight belt, solidifying his status as one of the top welterweights globally. During this period, Askren's unique grappling style and relentless pressure wore down opponents, leading to a string of impressive victories. His ability to control the fight on the ground and neutralize striking threats made him a challenging matchup for anyone he faced. Askren's success in these organizations not only elevated his own profile but also contributed to the growth and recognition of Bellator and ONE Championship as legitimate contenders in the MMA landscape. It was during this time that he truly honed his MMA skills, blending his wrestling base with improved striking and submission techniques. This period of his career was marked by consistent growth and a clear demonstration of his potential to compete at the highest levels of the sport.

The UFC Arrival: Hype and Reality

The buzz around Askren reached fever pitch when he finally landed in the UFC. The trade that sent him for former UFC champion Demetrious Johnson was HUGE news. Right off the bat, he faced Robbie Lawler in a fight that was nothing short of chaotic. Askren won via controversial stoppage, a finish that had everyone scratching their heads and arguing about the referee's decision. This fight immediately thrust him into the spotlight, but not necessarily for the reasons he would have hoped. The victory over Lawler was marred by debate, with many questioning the legitimacy of the stoppage. Nevertheless, it marked his arrival in the UFC and set the stage for what many believed would be a title run. The hype surrounding Askren was immense, fueled by his previous accomplishments and his unique personality. Fans were eager to see if his wrestling-heavy style could translate to success against the top-tier competition in the UFC's welterweight division. However, the reality of his UFC tenure would soon prove to be more challenging than anticipated.

The Setbacks and the Retirement

Then came the Jorge Masvidal fight. Remember that flying knee? Ouch! It was one of the fastest knockouts in UFC history, and it instantly became an iconic, albeit painful, moment in Askren's career. Following that, he faced Demian Maia, a grappling wizard, and lost via submission. These losses exposed vulnerabilities in Askren's game and ultimately derailed his hopes of becoming a UFC champion. The loss to Masvidal was particularly devastating, not only because of the speed and brutality of the knockout but also because it shattered the aura of invincibility that Askren had cultivated. The subsequent loss to Maia further highlighted the challenges he faced against high-level grapplers in the UFC. Despite these setbacks, Askren remained a respected figure in the MMA community, admired for his resilience and his willingness to take on tough challenges. Ultimately, injuries and the accumulation of damage led to his retirement from professional fighting. While he may not have achieved his goal of becoming a UFC champion, his impact on the sport and his unique journey will not be forgotten.

Why No UFC Gold?

So, why didn't Askren become a UFC champion? Several factors contributed. Firstly, the competition in the UFC is simply brutal. The welterweight division is filled with killers, and Askren ran into some stylistic nightmares. Secondly, his striking was always a work in progress, leaving him vulnerable against elite strikers. Lastly, the wear and tear from years of wrestling and fighting took its toll. The combination of these factors ultimately prevented him from reaching the pinnacle of the sport. The welterweight division in the UFC is known for its depth and talent, and Askren faced some of the toughest matchups possible. His reliance on wrestling, while effective against many opponents, proved to be a disadvantage against fighters with strong takedown defense and superior striking skills. Furthermore, the injuries and physical toll from his wrestling career and MMA fights eventually caught up with him, limiting his ability to compete at his best. Despite these challenges, Askren's determination and competitive spirit never wavered, and he continued to push himself to the limit in every fight.

Askren's Lasting Impact

Even without the UFC title, Askren's impact on MMA is undeniable. He brought a unique style and a never-back-down attitude that fans loved (or loved to hate). He proved that wrestling can still be a dominant force in MMA, and he paved the way for other wrestlers to transition to the sport. His outspoken personality and willingness to engage in trash talk also made him a memorable figure in the MMA landscape. Beyond his fighting skills, Askren's impact extends to his contributions to the growth of MMA as a whole. He helped to elevate the profile of Bellator and ONE Championship, showcasing the talent and excitement that existed outside of the UFC. His willingness to take on challenges and his unwavering belief in his abilities inspired many aspiring fighters. While his UFC career may have been shorter and less successful than some had anticipated, his legacy as a pioneer and innovator in the sport remains secure.

What is Ben Askren Doing Now?

After hanging up his gloves, Askren hasn't exactly faded into obscurity. He's been involved in coaching, commentating, and even a boxing match against Jake Paul (which, let's be honest, didn't go his way). He remains a prominent voice in the MMA community, offering his insights and opinions on the latest happenings in the sport. Askren's post-fighting career has been marked by his continued involvement in combat sports, albeit in different roles. His coaching endeavors allow him to share his knowledge and experience with the next generation of fighters, while his commentary work provides a platform for him to offer his unique perspective on the sport. The boxing match against Jake Paul, while a departure from his MMA background, demonstrated his willingness to take on new challenges and stay in the public eye. Despite the outcome of the fight, Askren's participation generated significant buzz and further solidified his status as a recognizable figure in the world of combat sports. Whether he's coaching, commentating, or engaging in other ventures, Askren remains a relevant and influential figure in the MMA community.

Final Thoughts: The "Funky" Legacy

So, there you have it. Ben Askren's journey is a reminder that success isn't always defined by titles. He may not have become a UFC champion, but his impact on the sport, his unique style, and his unforgettable moments in the octagon have cemented his place in MMA history. He will always be remembered as the "Funky" wrestler who dared to be different and always kept things interesting. Whether you loved him or hated him, you couldn't deny that Ben Askren was one of a kind! And that's what makes his story so compelling. His legacy extends beyond wins and losses, encompassing his contributions to the sport, his impact on other fighters, and his enduring presence in the MMA community. So, next time you're discussing MMA legends, don't forget to mention the name Ben Askren – a true original in the world of combat sports.