Written by Kimberly Zaleski
Modified & Updated: 04 Mar 2024
Reviewed by Jessica Corbett
Ben Askren is a name that resonates with the world of combat sports. Known for his impressive wrestling background and unconventional fighting style, Askren has left a lasting impact on the MMA community. While many fans may be familiar with his main achievements, such as being a former Olympic wrestler and reigning Bellator Welterweight Champion, there are several surprising facts about Askren that are not widely known. From his entrepreneurial ventures to his unique diet choices, this article will uncover 10 intriguing facts about the man behind the tough exterior. So, fasten your seatbelts, because we are about to dive into the lesser-known side of Ben Askren’s fascinating journey.
Key Takeaways:
- Ben Askren is a versatile athlete, excelling in Olympic wrestling, MMA, and even professional boxing. His unique “Funky” wrestling style and mental toughness have made him a force to be reckoned with in combat sports.
- Beyond his fighting career, Ben Askren is also a charismatic social media personality and a knowledgeable MMA commentator. His resilience and dominance in the cage, coupled with his engaging online presence, have made him a fan favorite in and out of the ring.
Olympic Wrestling Champion
Ben Askren is not just a talented MMA fighter, he is also a decorated Olympic wrestler. He won a gold medal in freestyle wrestling at the 2008 Summer Olympics, showcasing his exceptional skills and dominance in the sport.
Undefeated Bellator Champion
During his career with Bellator MMA, Askren achieved an impressive feat by becoming the undefeated welterweight champion. His tenacious style and exceptional grappling skills made him a force to be reckoned with in the promotion.
Adapted Unique Wrestling Style
Known for his unorthodox wrestling style, Askren developed a technique called “Funky” wrestling. This style combines traditional wrestling moves with creative transitions and unorthodox positioning, making him a challenging opponent for anyone in the cage.
Former ONE Championship Title Holder
After leaving Bellator, Askren joined ONE Championship and quickly made an impact. He captured the welterweight title and defended it multiple times, showcasing his dominance and resilience in the Asian promotion.
Professional Boxing Stint
In 2019, Askren took a break from MMA and ventured into the world of professional boxing. He faced off against YouTube sensation Jake Paul in a highly anticipated bout, demonstrating his versatility as an athlete.
Outstanding College Wrestling Career
Before making a name for himself in MMA, Askren had an outstanding college wrestling career. He was a two-time NCAA Division I champion and a four-time All-American during his time at the University of Missouri.
Master of the Ground Game
Askren’s grappling skills are widely regarded as some of the best in the MMA world. He has a remarkable ability to control his opponents on the ground, using his top-notch wrestling technique to dictate the pace of the fight.
Working as an MMA Commentator
Aside from his fighting career, Askren has also ventured into the world of commentating. He provides expert analysis and insights as a commentator for various MMA promotions, sharing his wealth of knowledge and experiences with fans.
Social Media Personality
Askren has become quite the social media personality, known for his witty and humorous posts on platforms like Twitter and Instagram. He engages with fans and shares his thoughts and opinions about the sport, making him a fan favorite outside of the cage.
The Importance of Mental Toughness
One of the key factors behind Askren’s success is his mental toughness. He has shown resilience and the ability to overcome adversity throughout his career, demonstrating the importance of a strong mindset in achieving goals.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Ben Askren is not only a skilled and accomplished athlete in the world of mixed martial arts, but he also has a fascinating background and interesting facts that may surprise many. From his Olympic wrestling career to his unbeaten streak in ONE Championship, Askren has left an indelible mark on the sport. His unique approach to fights, as well as his charismatic personality, have made him a popular figure among fans. Whether you’re a fan of MMA or simply curious about noteworthy celebrities, learning about Ben Askren’s surprising facts is sure to provide an entertaining insight into his life and accomplishments.
FAQs
Q: How did Ben Askren transition from Olympic wrestling to mixed martial arts?
A: After competing in the 2008 Olympics, Askren decided to pursue a career in MMA. He underwent training and made his professional debut in 2009, showcasing his wrestling skills and adapting them to the sport of mixed martial arts.
Q: Has Ben Askren ever lost a fight?
A: Askren held an impressive undefeated record throughout his entire career in ONE Championship. However, he faced defeats later in his career when he joined the UFC and competed against top-level fighters.
Q: What is Ben Askren’s fighting style known for?
A: Askren is renowned for his exceptional wrestling skills, utilizing a relentless grappling game. His style focuses on takedowns, ground control, and submission attempts, making him a formidable opponent in the welterweight division.
Q: Was Ben Askren involved in any controversies during his career?
A: Askren was known for his trash-talking and confrontations with fellow fighters, which led to some controversial moments. He was also involved in a highly discussed trade between UFC and ONE Championship.
Q: Aside from MMA, what other ventures has Ben Askren pursued?
A: Askren has ventured into coaching and opened his own wrestling academy. He has also been involved in various business endeavors, including public speaking, podcasting, and even farming.
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