Ben Askren's MMA Records: A Detailed Look

by Jhon Lennon 42 views

Let's dive deep into the Ben Askren MMA records, guys! If you're a mixed martial arts fan, you've definitely heard of Ben "Funky" Askren. Known for his exceptional wrestling skills and unique fighting style, Askren has carved out a notable career in the world of MMA. In this article, we're going to break down his records, explore his key fights, and highlight the moments that defined his journey. Let's get started!

A Quick Look at Ben Askren's Career

Before we get into the nitty-gritty details of the Ben Askren MMA records, let's take a quick look at his background. Ben Askren is an American retired mixed martial artist and former freestyle wrestler. His wrestling credentials are seriously impressive: he was a two-time NCAA Division I champion and an Olympian. This strong wrestling foundation heavily influenced his MMA career, where he became known for his grappling-heavy style.

Askren's professional MMA career began in 2009. He quickly made a name for himself, winning titles in Bellator and ONE Championship before joining the UFC. While his UFC stint was relatively short, it was memorable, to say the least. Known for his funky style and outspoken personality, Askren always brought excitement to the cage.

Now, let's delve into the specifics of those Ben Askren MMA records and see what made him such a compelling figure in the sport.

Detailed MMA Record Breakdown

Alright, let's break down the Ben Askren MMA records in detail. As of his retirement, Askren held a professional MMA record of 19 wins, 2 losses, and 1 no-contest. Here’s a closer look at those numbers:

  • Wins (19): The vast majority of Askren’s wins came via finishes. He secured 6 wins by knockout or TKO and 6 wins by submission, showcasing his ability to dominate opponents both on the feet and on the ground. Additionally, he earned 7 victories by decision, proving he could also win by controlling the fight and racking up points.

  • Losses (2): Askren’s two losses are significant moments in his career that are worth examining. These fights highlighted vulnerabilities in his game and added drama to his story.

  • No-Contests (1): The no-contest adds a bit of intrigue to his record, usually resulting from unforeseen circumstances during a fight.

Wins by Method

Let’s break down those 19 wins a little further:

  • Knockout/TKO: 6 wins. Askren wasn't primarily known as a striker, but he had enough power and technique to finish opponents when the opportunity arose. These wins often came as a result of his opponents being worn down by his relentless wrestling.

  • Submission: 6 wins. Askren's grappling skills were top-notch, and he had a knack for finding submissions. His wrestling base allowed him to control opponents and create openings for chokes and joint locks.

  • Decision: 7 wins. Askren could control the pace and position of a fight, securing rounds and earning the judges' favor. His wrestling often played a key role in these victories.

Notable Fights and Moments

To truly understand Ben Askren MMA records, we need to discuss some of his most memorable fights. These bouts not only shaped his record but also defined his legacy in the sport.

  • Bellator Welterweight Championship: Askren captured the Bellator Welterweight Championship in 2010, defeating Lyman Good. This victory marked a significant milestone in his career, establishing him as a top welterweight in the sport. His dominant wrestling and ground control were on full display as he secured the win.

  • ONE Championship: After leaving Bellator, Askren joined ONE Championship, where he continued his dominance. He won the ONE Welterweight Championship and defended it multiple times, further solidifying his reputation as one of the best welterweights outside of the UFC. His time in ONE Championship was marked by impressive performances and a growing international fanbase.

  • UFC Debut vs. Robbie Lawler: Askren's UFC debut against Robbie Lawler was one of the most talked-about fights of 2019. After a brutal opening round where Lawler unleashed a barrage of strikes, Askren managed to secure a bulldog choke, earning a controversial stoppage victory. The fight was filled with drama and controversy, and it immediately made Askren a must-watch fighter in the UFC.

  • Jorge Masvidal Fight: This fight is perhaps the most infamous of Ben Askren MMA records. Askren faced Jorge Masvidal at UFC 239, and the fight ended in just five seconds with Masvidal landing a flying knee knockout. This remains the fastest knockout in UFC history and significantly impacted Askren's legacy.

  • Demian Maia Fight: Askren's final fight in the UFC was against Demian Maia, a highly respected grappler. Maia submitted Askren with a rear-naked choke in the third round. This loss marked the end of Askren's UFC career and led to his retirement from MMA.

Askren's Impact and Legacy

So, what's the final verdict on Ben Askren MMA records and his impact on the sport? Despite a relatively short and somewhat controversial UFC career, Ben Askren left a lasting impression on the MMA world. His unique wrestling style, combined with his outspoken personality, made him a memorable figure. He proved that a wrestling-heavy approach could be successful in MMA, and he inspired many fighters to focus on their grappling skills.

Askren's accomplishments outside of the UFC, particularly his title reigns in Bellator and ONE Championship, should not be overlooked. He was a dominant force in those organizations, and he helped to raise the profile of MMA on a global scale. Even though his UFC run didn't go as planned, he still managed to create some unforgettable moments and contribute to the sport's growth.

The Wrap-Up: Ben Askren's Place in MMA History

In conclusion, exploring Ben Askren MMA records reveals a career filled with both triumph and adversity. From his dominant run in Bellator and ONE Championship to his short but eventful stint in the UFC, Askren always brought excitement and a unique style to the cage. While his record may not be flawless, his impact on the sport is undeniable.

Whether you loved him or hated him, Ben Askren was a fighter who always made things interesting. His legacy as a wrestler-turned-MMA fighter is secure, and his contributions to the sport will be remembered for years to come. So, next time you're discussing the most memorable figures in MMA, don't forget to include "Funky" Ben Askren in the conversation!