Ben Askren Highlights: Best Moments

What's up, fight fans! Today, we're diving deep into the career of a true martial arts maverick, Ben Askren. Known for his dominant wrestling background and that signature funky style, Askren's fights were always must-watch TV. Whether you're a longtime fan or just getting into MMA, his career is packed with unforgettable moments. So, let's break down some of the absolute best Ben Askren highlights that cemented his legacy in the sport.

The Wrestling Phenom: A Foundation Built on Dominance

Before Ben Askren became a household name in mixed martial arts, he was an absolute legend in the wrestling world. Guys, his collegiate wrestling career at the University of Missouri was nothing short of spectacular. He was a two-time NCAA Division I national champion and a two-time Dan Hodge Trophy winner, which is basically the Heisman Trophy of wrestling. This wrestling prowess wasn't just about winning; it was about total domination. Askren's ability to control opponents, rack up takedowns, and maintain positional advantage was unparalleled. This foundation is crucial to understanding his MMA game. Many fighters struggle to implement their wrestling effectively in MMA, but Askren was different. He brought that same suffocating control from the mat into the octagon and the ring. His takedowns were explosive, his scrambles were insane, and his ability to wear down opponents with relentless pressure was a sight to behold. When you watch his MMA highlights, you'll see that same wrestling DNA in every aspect of his performance. It's that raw, unadulterated grappling skill that made him such a unique and challenging opponent for anyone he faced. He wasn't just a good wrestler; he was an elite, world-class wrestler who transitioned his skills seamlessly, setting the stage for some truly memorable fights and finishes.

Early MMA Career: Forging a Path in ONE Championship

Ben Askren's journey in MMA truly began to take shape in ONE Championship. He entered the promotion with a perfect record and quickly established himself as a force to be reckoned with. His debut against Meng Bo was a statement win, showcasing the wrestling skills that would become his trademark. But it was his run to the ONE Welterweight World Championship that really put him on the map. He defeated notable opponents like Bakhtiyar Abbasov and Luis Santos, often through his signature ground-and-pound or submission finishes. These early ONE Championship fights were instrumental in showcasing his unique fighting style to a global audience. He wasn't afraid to mix it up, and his grappling advantage often led to lopsided victories. What made Askren so exciting to watch during this period was his ability to impose his will. He didn't just win; he dominated. Opponents knew what was coming – the takedowns, the control – yet few had the answers. His fights were often a masterclass in grappling strategy, demonstrating how a superior wrestler could neutralize strikers and control the pace of the fight. The ONE Championship era was where Askren solidified his reputation as an undefeated champion and built a dedicated fanbase eager to see what he would do next. These highlights from his time in Asia are a testament to his skill and determination, proving that his wrestling background was a formidable weapon in the highly competitive world of MMA.

The "Funky" Strikes and Submissions: More Than Just Wrestling

While Ben Askren's wrestling was undeniably his primary weapon, he wasn't a one-dimensional fighter, guys. He developed a surprisingly effective and, dare I say, funky striking game to complement his grappling. Those elbows, those short, sharp punches from top control – they were deadly! And let's not forget his submissions. Askren's submission highlights often came after he had thoroughly worn down his opponents on the ground. His technical proficiency, combined with his relentless pressure, allowed him to lock in chokes and armbars that opponents simply couldn't escape. One of his most iconic finishes came against Zebaztian Kadestam, where he landed a beautiful arm-triangle choke. This wasn't just a lucky submission; it was the result of calculated pressure and expert technique. He would systematically break down opponents, making them defend takedowns, endure ground control, and then, when they were most vulnerable, he'd strike or transition to a submission. This strategic approach made his fights incredibly engaging. You knew he was going to try and take you down, but how he would finish you was always the question. The "funky" aspect often referred to his unconventional movements and unorthodox striking, which could catch opponents off guard. He wasn't trying to be a flashy striker; he was using strikes effectively to set up his grappling or to finish the fight once he had dominant position. These moments, showcasing both his striking accuracy and his submission prowess, are critical Ben Askren highlights that demonstrate his well-roundedness and his ability to finish fights in multiple ways. He proved that a fighter doesn't need to be a knockout artist to be exciting and dangerous; strategic application of skills is often more effective.

The UFC Debut and Memorable Moments

When Ben Askren finally made his way to the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), the hype was immense. His debut against former champion Robbie Lawler was one of the most anticipated fights of the year. Ben Askren's UFC highlights from this fight are a mix of controversy and brilliance. Despite being dominated on the ground for much of the fight, Askren managed to secure a comeback victory via a controversial TKO in the second round. The win was huge, but the way it happened sparked debate. However, Askren didn't let that define him. His next fight against Jorge Masvidal is etched in MMA history. The infamous flying knee knockout, delivered by Masvidal just five seconds into the fight, is one of the fastest KOs ever. While not a highlight for Askren in terms of victory, it's an undeniable part of his story and a memorable Ben Askren highlight for its sheer shock value and historical significance. These UFC moments, though sometimes unconventional, are crucial parts of his career narrative. They show his resilience, his willingness to face anyone, and the unpredictable nature of MMA. Even in defeat, Askren's fights generated buzz and discussion, further solidifying his place as a unique personality in the sport. His UFC tenure might have been shorter than some anticipated, but the impact and the unforgettable moments created are undeniable.

Beyond the Octagon: The Boxing Match with Jake Paul

Even after his UFC career, Ben Askren wasn't done making headlines. His transition into boxing for a fight against social media sensation Jake Paul in April 2021 brought a whole new audience to his story. Ben Askren's boxing highlights from this bout, while brief, were significant. The fight ended with Askren being knocked down in the first round and ultimately losing via KO. This was a stark contrast to his MMA career, where he was known for his wrestling dominance and grit. This boxing match marked a different chapter, showcasing the challenges of crossing disciplines, especially against a hungry, up-and-coming boxer. While the outcome wasn't what his fans hoped for, it was another chapter in the always interesting career of Ben Askren. It demonstrated his willingness to step outside his comfort zone and take on new challenges, regardless of the potential risks. For many, this fight was their first introduction to Ben Askren, and while it wasn't a victory highlight, it brought attention to his past achievements in MMA and wrestling. It's a testament to his enduring presence in the combat sports world that even a boxing match against a novice boxer could generate such widespread interest. His journey from wrestling mats to MMA arenas and even to the boxing ring is a unique narrative in combat sports history, and these events, like the Paul fight, are undeniably part of the complete Ben Askren story.

The Legacy of "Funky" Ben Askren

So, what's the lasting impact of Ben Askren's career? He's a reminder that there isn't just one way to succeed in combat sports. His unparalleled wrestling, his "funky" style, and his willingness to face anyone, anywhere, made him a truly unique fighter. Ben Askren highlights aren't just about knockouts and submissions; they're about a testament to strategic brilliance, relentless pressure, and a personality that captivated fans. He achieved championship status in multiple organizations and proved that a strong grappling base can be a game-changer in MMA. Whether you remember him for his dominant wrestling, his surprising strikes, or his memorable moments inside and outside the cage, Ben Askren left an indelible mark on the sport. He inspired many wrestlers to pursue MMA and showed the world that skill, strategy, and a whole lot of heart can overcome sheer power. His legacy is one of innovation and a fierce competitive spirit that will be remembered for years to come. Thanks for tuning in, guys! Keep training, and keep watching the greats!