Ben Askren's Next Fight: What's Next For Funky?
Ben Askren, affectionately known as "Funky," has always been a captivating figure in the world of combat sports. From his days as a dominant collegiate wrestler to his transition into mixed martial arts, Askren has carved out a unique path defined by his unorthodox style and relentless determination. Following his retirement from professional fighting, fans and analysts alike have been left wondering: what's next for Ben Askren? Let's dive into the possibilities and explore what the future might hold for this celebrated athlete.
A Look Back at Ben Askren's Career
Before we delve into potential future endeavors, it's essential to appreciate the journey that brought Ben Askren to where he is today. Askren's wrestling pedigree is undeniable; he was a two-time NCAA Division I National Champion and an Olympian. This foundation provided him with a unique grappling-heavy approach to MMA, which often bewildered and frustrated his opponents. In MMA, Askren found success in organizations like Bellator and ONE Championship, where he became a champion and established himself as one of the top welterweights in the world. His transition to the UFC was highly anticipated, though his tenure there was marked by both excitement and controversy. Wins over Robbie Lawler were overshadowed by a quick knockout loss to Jorge Masvidal and a submission defeat against Demian Maia. Despite these setbacks, Askren's impact on the sport is undeniable, and his fights were always must-watch television, thanks to his engaging personality and relentless approach.
Ben Askren's unique style, characterized by his relentless grappling and awkward striking, set him apart from many other fighters. His ability to control opponents on the ground and his unwavering confidence made him a formidable competitor. Askren's career highlights include his championship reigns in Bellator and ONE Championship, as well as his memorable battles in the UFC. While his time in the UFC may not have gone exactly as planned, he still managed to leave a lasting impression on fans and fellow fighters alike. Whether you loved him or loved to hate him, Ben Askren always brought a certain level of excitement and intrigue to the cage. His fights were rarely boring, and his post-fight interviews were often just as entertaining. Askren's willingness to engage with fans and his outspoken personality made him a beloved figure in the MMA community. He wasn't afraid to speak his mind, and he always stood up for what he believed in. This authenticity resonated with many fans, who appreciated his honesty and straightforwardness.
Potential Avenues for Ben Askren
So, what could Ben Askren be up to next? While he's officially retired from professional MMA, that doesn't mean he's stepping away from the combat sports world entirely. Here are a few possibilities:
1. Coaching and Mentoring
Given his extensive wrestling background and MMA experience, coaching seems like a natural fit for Ben Askren. He possesses a wealth of knowledge that he could impart to aspiring fighters. Imagine Askren working with young wrestlers looking to transition to MMA or helping established fighters improve their grappling game. His unique perspective and technical expertise would make him a valuable asset to any training camp. Plus, his ability to break down complex techniques into simple, understandable concepts would make him an effective teacher. Ben Askren's coaching style would likely be hands-on, focusing on drilling techniques and developing game plans tailored to each individual fighter. He would also emphasize the mental aspect of the sport, helping his students build confidence and resilience. In addition to technical skills, Askren would also teach his students about the importance of hard work, discipline, and perseverance. These are the qualities that helped him achieve success in his own career, and he would want to instill them in the next generation of fighters. Whether he's working with beginners or seasoned professionals, Ben Askren has the potential to make a significant impact as a coach and mentor.
2. Commentary and Analysis
Ben Askren's articulate and insightful commentary has already made him a popular figure in the MMA media landscape. His ability to break down fights and offer unique perspectives would make him a valuable addition to any broadcast team. Fans appreciate his honesty and willingness to speak his mind, even if it means going against the grain. He could provide color commentary for live events, offering his analysis between rounds and during replays. Additionally, he could contribute to pre- and post-fight shows, sharing his insights on fighter matchups and strategies. Ben Askren's commentary style would likely be informative and entertaining, blending technical analysis with his signature wit and humor. He would be able to explain complex concepts in a way that casual fans can understand, while also providing valuable insights for more experienced viewers. His deep knowledge of wrestling and grappling would allow him to offer unique perspectives on the ground game, highlighting the nuances of positioning and submission attempts. Furthermore, Askren's experience as a fighter would give him credibility and authority in his analysis. He would be able to speak from firsthand experience about the challenges and pressures that fighters face inside the cage. Overall, Ben Askren has the potential to become a highly sought-after commentator and analyst in the world of MMA.
3. Entrepreneurial Ventures
Beyond fighting and commentary, Ben Askren has demonstrated an entrepreneurial spirit. He could explore various business opportunities, perhaps related to the fitness or combat sports industries. He could open his own training facility, develop a line of athletic apparel, or create a series of instructional videos. His brand recognition and loyal fanbase would give him a significant advantage in these ventures. Ben Askren's entrepreneurial ventures would likely reflect his personal interests and values. He might focus on creating products or services that promote health, fitness, and self-improvement. He could also use his platform to advocate for causes that he believes in, such as youth sports programs or mental health awareness. In addition to his own ventures, Askren could also partner with other companies or organizations to promote their products or services. His endorsement would carry significant weight with his fans, who trust his judgment and respect his opinions. Whether he's launching his own business or collaborating with others, Ben Askren has the potential to make a significant impact in the entrepreneurial world.
4. Exhibition Matches and Special Events
The rise of exhibition matches and celebrity boxing has opened up new avenues for retired fighters like Ben Askren. While he has stated he is done with professional fighting, participating in a one-off exhibition bout could be a fun way to stay active and entertain fans. These events often generate significant buzz and can be quite lucrative, offering a win-win scenario for both the fighter and the promoters. Ben Askren's participation in exhibition matches and special events would likely depend on the opponent and the terms of the agreement. He would want to ensure that the event is well-organized and that the opponent is someone who will provide a competitive and entertaining matchup. He might also use the opportunity to raise money for charity or to promote a cause that he believes in. In addition to boxing or MMA exhibitions, Askren could also participate in other types of events, such as grappling tournaments or wrestling matches. His skills and experience would make him a formidable competitor in any of these arenas. Overall, exhibition matches and special events could provide Ben Askren with a way to stay connected to the combat sports world and to continue entertaining his fans.
Community Engagement and Advocacy
Ben Askren has always been actively involved in his community, and it's likely that he will continue to do so in his post-fighting career. He could work with local schools or youth organizations, sharing his experiences and inspiring young people to pursue their goals. He could also advocate for causes that he believes in, such as promoting youth sports or supporting veterans. Ben Askren's community engagement and advocacy efforts would likely focus on issues that are close to his heart. He might work with organizations that provide opportunities for underprivileged youth, helping them to develop the skills and confidence they need to succeed. He could also support initiatives that promote physical fitness and healthy lifestyles, encouraging people of all ages to get active and take care of their bodies. In addition to his work with young people, Askren could also advocate for veterans, using his platform to raise awareness of the challenges they face and to support programs that help them transition back to civilian life. His commitment to community engagement and advocacy would make him a positive role model for others and would help to create a better world.
What Fans Can Expect
Ultimately, while we can't predict the future with certainty, one thing is clear: Ben Askren will continue to be a prominent figure in the combat sports world, in one way or another. Whether he's coaching, commentating, or pursuing other ventures, his passion for the sport and his unique personality will ensure that he remains relevant and engaging. So, keep an eye out for "Funky" Ben Askren – he's sure to have something interesting up his sleeve!
Ben Askren's next chapter is sure to be filled with excitement and intrigue, and fans can't wait to see what he does next. Whether he's coaching the next generation of fighters, providing insightful commentary on the latest MMA events, or pursuing entrepreneurial ventures, Askren will undoubtedly bring his trademark passion and enthusiasm to everything he does. His legacy as a fighter is secure, but his journey is far from over. As he continues to evolve and explore new opportunities, Ben Askren will undoubtedly remain a beloved and respected figure in the combat sports community. So, stay tuned, folks, because the best is yet to come!
