Veteran UFC Fighter Ben Askren's Wife Debunks Death Rumors Amid Health Battle
The MMA and wrestling communities have rallied around former UFC fighter Ben Askren after it was announced by his wife, Amy Askren, that he was in critical condition. The 40-year-old fighter, known for his dominant wrestling and memorable UFC stint, was admitted to the hospital on June 7 after developing a sudden and severe case of pneumonia, which left him unresponsive.
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While the community has monitored the situation and extended support while respecting his family's request for privacy, unfortunately, rumors popped up that he had passed away.
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Former UFC fighter and Bellator champion Ben Askren remains in a critical health condition after being hospitalized with severe pneumonia, and his wife, Amy Askren, has forcefully denied false rumors circulating online that he had passed.
Amy Askren and other loved ones sent to a message to TMZ to clarify her husband's condition, writing, 'He is alive and any rumor he has died is completely false.'
Askren in particular emphasized that Ben is 'definitely still fighting' for his life and requested continued prayers from fans and the MMA community.
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The false death rumors gained traction after a misinterpretation by current UFC middleweight Caio Borralho.
The fighter sparked confusion and controversy when he mistakenly posted an "R.I.P." message for Ben Askren on X, believing the MMA veteran had passed away. The post has now been deleted.
Borralho, whose first language is Portuguese, misinterpreted a black-and-white tribute post from Maycee Barber, assuming it signaled Askren's death rather than a show of support during his critical health battle with pneumonia.
Further comments made by Askren's close friend and podcast co-host, Daniel Cormier, made the situation even more confusing.
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Initially, Cormier stated on his YouTube channel that Askren was back home in Wisconsin with his family, leading some to believe he had recovered.
However, Cormier later clarified on X that Askren was transferred to a Wisconsin hospital but remains under medical care.
Ben Askren's condition remains serious, but his family and friends remain hopeful. The broader MMA community will continue to monitor updates directly from the Askren family, awaiting further developments in his recovery.
Related: MMA and Wrestling Community Rallies Around UFC Veteran in Critical Condition
Related: Olympic Champion, WWE Wrestler, and NFL Hopeful Eyes UFC Debut and Meeting with Dana White
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jun 12, 2025, where it first appeared.
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