Former UFC star Ben Askren continues to battle through a frightening health crisis.
Earlier this week, Askren’s wife, Amy, revealed that he had been hospitalized with pneumonia and was, at one point, non-responsive. The update sparked serious concern, and as expected, rumors started swirling.
Long-time friend and podcast co-host Daniel Cormier stepped in to clear the air. While Askren’s condition remains serious, he’s been transferred to a hospital in Wisconsin—closer to home, but not actually home.
“So, that night that we did the episode of Funky and the Champ, Ben was complaining about some issues,” Cormier said on a recent show, describing when Askren’s condition began to worsen (via MMA Mania). “He had some infections. He had a really tough time when he went to that [Bitcoin] convention in Vegas and he was stuck there for a while.
“I wanna report to you guys that he is now back home in Wisconsin,” Cormier added. “He’s with his family, his beautiful wife Amy, and everybody’s just kind of praying that Ben gets better and we can start moving forward with life for Ben.”
Cormier emphasized that Askren is not fully recovered and remains hospitalized. Surrounded by family and loved ones, he continues to fight.
“It’s so sad, and I don’t know how at times in life things like this happen to someone that’s so good, because Ben Askren’s a good guy,” Cormier said. “So, pray for Amy, guys. Pray for the kids. Ben, we love you, buddy. And we’re constantly thinking about him every single day.
“I cannot wait for the next Funky and the Champ because we’re gonna talk about that and so much more,” he continued. “We get so much of Ben in the way that we all love Ben. And you guys know how much we love Ben.
“Pray for Ben. Shoot his wife Amy Askren a heart, maybe some prayer hands on socials. Let her know that Ben has a community of people that love him and care about him and that we’re all thinking about him in this tough time.”
Last week, reports confirmed that Ben Askren was in critical condition due to a severe case of pneumonia caused by a staph infection.
Since then, Amy has received an outpouring of support. On Monday evening, she posted a heartfelt update:
“Feeling so incredibly thankful for our friends and community,” Amy wrote in a Facebook post later shared to her Instagram story. “It’s times like this that remind you how truly blessed you are.
“I feel God moving through the love and support we have received. I’m sorry if I haven’t had the chance to respond to you, but know I’ve seen your messages, and each one has meant so much to me. Please keep praying for Ben.”
Cormier’s original update prompted confusion. His comment that Askren was “back home in Wisconsin” led many to believe the worst was over. Clips of the podcast spread across social media with captions that claimed Ben Askren had made a full recovery. Cormier quickly jumped back in to clarify.
“He’s back in Wisconsin in a hospital. He isn’t home,” Cormier wrote. “Please keep praying for Ben. I should have been more clear.”
