Overview

• Ben Askren was hospitalized June 7 with severe pneumonia triggered by a staph infection and has now been placed on a lung transplant list.
• He remains on a ventilator and ECMO to support his breathing, but medical staff report that his heart, kidneys and other organs are functioning properly.
• He has shown periods of awareness in recent days, opening his eyes, squeezing hands and even mouthing “coffee” despite still being sedated.
• His wife, Amy Askren, has provided regular social media updates and drawn strength from her faith while hoping for a suitable donor match.
• The MMA and wrestling communities, backed by figures like Dana White and brands such as Rudis, have launched fundraisers and merchandise campaigns to cover his mounting medical expenses.