On Saturday, July 19, 2026, former UFC fighter and Olympic wrestler Ben Askren announced his retirement from competitive wrestling after a loss to former UFC welterweight champion Belal Muhammad at the UW-Milwaukee Panther Arena.

The match, organized by Real American Freestyle, marked a remarkable return for Askren, who had undergone a double lung transplant after a severe battle with pneumonia last year. Askren previously revealed he spent around 40 days in a coma and lost significant weight during his recovery.

Despite ongoing physical challenges, the two-time NCAA champion and 2008 Olympian returned to the mat on his 42nd birthday, stating it would be his final appearance. Askren started strong with a 3-0 lead through good pressure and quick defense but eventually faded, with Muhammad securing a 6-3 victory.

Reflecting on his retirement, Askren said, "My legs gave out, they wouldn't carry me any longer," as he left his wrestling shoes on the mat. He also expressed gratitude, saying, "Every day I woke up and thanked God for the chance to do it just one more time."

Askren had retired from mixed martial arts in 2019 after a brief UFC career.

Sources

CNA Latest News