Ben Askren's UFC Fights: Wins And Losses

Let's dive into the UFC career of Ben Askren, focusing on his wins, losses, and overall impact. For those who might not know, Ben Askren, nicknamed "Funky," transitioned to MMA after a highly decorated wrestling career. His unique style and dominant performances outside the UFC created a lot of buzz when he finally joined the promotion. However, his UFC tenure was relatively short and filled with memorable moments, both good and bad. So, let’s break down his journey inside the Octagon, analyzing each fight to understand his successes and setbacks.

A Promising Start: Ben Askren's UFC Debut

Ben Askren's UFC journey began with a highly anticipated debut against Robbie Lawler at UFC 235 on March 2, 2019. This fight was a classic clash of styles: Askren's relentless wrestling versus Lawler's powerful striking. The first round was nothing short of chaotic. Lawler came out aggressively, landing heavy strikes that had Askren in serious trouble early on. Lawler's initial onslaught had many wondering if Askren's UFC debut would be a quick and brutal end. However, Askren weathered the storm, showcasing his resilience and grappling expertise.

Askren managed to survive the initial flurry and eventually secured a takedown. From there, he began to implement his wrestling game, working to control Lawler on the ground. The fight reached its controversial climax when Askren locked in a bulldog choke. Referee Herb Dean stepped in, believing Lawler had gone unconscious, and stopped the fight. The decision was immediately contested, with Lawler vehemently arguing that he was still conscious. Replays were inconclusive, adding to the controversy. Despite the contentious nature of the finish, Askren was declared the winner by technical submission.

The victory over a former champion like Robbie Lawler immediately placed Askren in the title conversation. It demonstrated his ability to endure adversity and find a way to win, even against dangerous opponents. While the controversial finish left some doubts, it was undeniably a significant win that boosted his profile in the UFC. This fight highlighted both Askren's strengths and vulnerabilities, setting the stage for what would be a rollercoaster ride in his UFC career. The Lawler fight remains a talking point among MMA fans, remembered for its intensity and the debated stoppage that marked the beginning of Askren's UFC journey.

The First Setback: A Record-Breaking Loss

Following his controversial win, Ben Askren faced Jorge Masvidal at UFC 239 on July 6, 2019. This fight would become one of the most talked-about moments in UFC history, but not for the reasons Askren would have hoped. Masvidal had been building momentum with impressive performances, and the clash with Askren was highly anticipated due to their contrasting styles and personalities. What transpired, however, was shocking and swift.

As soon as the bell rang, Masvidal sprinted across the Octagon and launched a flying knee that landed perfectly on Askren's head. Askren was knocked out instantly, just five seconds into the fight. It was the fastest knockout in UFC history, a record that still stands. The image of Askren unconscious on the canvas became iconic, symbolizing the brutal and unpredictable nature of MMA. The speed and precision of Masvidal's attack were stunning, and it immediately went viral, turning Masvidal into a global superstar.

For Askren, the loss was a devastating blow. It not only halted his momentum but also raised serious questions about his ability to compete at the highest level of the UFC. The fight exposed a vulnerability to quick, explosive strikes, something that his wrestling-heavy style had previously masked. The defeat was a stark reminder that in MMA, anything can happen, and a single mistake can be decisive. The loss to Masvidal was a significant setback, forcing Askren to reassess his strategy and approach to the sport. It also added a layer of intrigue to his career, as fans wondered how he would respond to such a crushing defeat. This fight remains one of the most memorable and replayed moments in UFC history, forever associated with both Masvidal's rise and Askren's unexpected downfall.

The Final Fight: Demian Maia

Ben Askren's final UFC fight was against Demian Maia on October 26, 2019, at UFC Fight Night 162. This matchup was intriguing because both fighters were known for their exceptional grappling skills. Maia, a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt, presented a different kind of challenge for Askren, one that would test his wrestling and submission defense against one of the best grapplers in MMA history. The fight was a classic battle of attrition, with both men showcasing their expertise on the ground.

The first round saw both fighters engaging in grappling exchanges, with Askren initially securing takedowns. However, Maia's superior Jiu-Jitsu skills quickly became apparent as he threatened with submissions. Askren managed to escape several submission attempts, demonstrating his toughness and wrestling acumen. As the fight progressed, Maia's relentless pressure and submission attempts began to wear Askren down. In the third round, Maia secured a tight rear-naked choke, forcing Askren to tap out. It was a clear and decisive victory for Maia, solidifying his reputation as one of the most dangerous grapplers in the sport.

The loss to Maia marked the end of Askren's UFC career. It highlighted his struggles against high-level submission artists and raised questions about his overall effectiveness in the UFC. While Askren had moments of success in the fight, Maia's superior grappling ultimately proved to be the deciding factor. This defeat underscored the importance of a well-rounded skillset in MMA, particularly at the highest levels of competition. The fight against Maia served as a final chapter in Askren's UFC story, a career that began with promise but ended with disappointment. Despite the setbacks, Askren's willingness to face tough opponents and his unique style left a lasting impression on the sport.

Ben Askren's UFC Record: A Summary

In summary, Ben Askren's UFC record consists of one win and two losses. His debut win against Robbie Lawler was controversial, while his losses to Jorge Masvidal and Demian Maia were decisive. While his UFC career was short-lived, it was filled with memorable moments and significant talking points. Askren's arrival in the UFC was highly anticipated, given his dominant wrestling background and success in other MMA promotions. However, he faced tough competition and struggled to adapt his style to the highest level of the sport.

His victory over Robbie Lawler, though controversial, showcased his resilience and ability to win under pressure. The loss to Jorge Masvidal was a shocking setback, highlighting his vulnerability to quick, explosive strikes. His final fight against Demian Maia demonstrated his struggles against high-level submission artists. Despite the mixed results, Askren's UFC career was undoubtedly impactful. He brought attention to the sport and engaged fans with his unique personality and fighting style. His fights were always entertaining, and his willingness to face top-tier opponents made him a notable figure in the UFC landscape.

Ben Askren's transition to the UFC was a significant chapter in his career, marking both successes and failures. His journey serves as a reminder of the challenges and uncertainties of MMA, where even the most accomplished athletes can face unexpected setbacks. While his time in the UFC may not have lived up to the initial hype, Askren's contributions to the sport and his memorable moments inside the Octagon will not be forgotten. His legacy remains complex, a blend of wrestling dominance, controversial decisions, and stunning defeats, all contributing to the rich tapestry of MMA history.