This week, Ben Askren spoke on-camera for the first time since undergoing a double lung transplant at the end of June. In addition to thanking fans for all the support he and his family have received, Askren revealed that he died four times throughout his hospitalization.
Despite that, Askren, who appeared visibly stronger than he did earlier in the week, explained in a new video released on Saturday that he refuses to feel sorry for himself.
“I just wanted to give one mental Monday’s message, and that was, I’m gonna plead guilty. I felt guilty for myself one time, and that doesn’t do anyone any good. And I thought, ‘Man, I never smoked one cigarette, never smoked any weed, never anything. Why did my lungs get stolen from me, why isn’t this happening to someone who smokes habitually?’
“Then I realized it happened, it’s over, it’s done with. I could be bitter and angry. I could whine, cry. This not going to help anybody. I am where I am now, and I’m going to move forward the best that I can. So hope you guys are enjoying the updates. I will not feel sorry for myself. I’m going to get out of here pretty soon and hope you guys are having a great day.”
MMA Community Reacts to Ben Askren’s Motivational Video
Throughout the course of Ben Askren’s hospitalization, the MMA community and the wrestling community have both continued to rally around the former ONE and Bellator welterweight champ.
In response to Askren’s latest update, where he shed light on his perspective through this difficult time, the MMA community was quick to shower him with support and well-wishes.
In the comments section on Instagram, Daniel Cormier wrote: “It’s amazing how much better you look and sound. And as always you are speaking words that will inspire people.”
Ariel Helwani added: “You’re looking so much better Ben! Keep going!!”
Former bantamweight champion TJ Dillashaw replied: “Mindset of a champion, look so much better. Stronger everyday!”
Former UFC fighter Corey Anderson, who was a standout NCAA wrestler himself, replied: “My guy!!! On the come up and love to see it!! Can’t wait to see you back on the mats soon enough.”
Veteran referee Mike Beltran wrote: “Amazing mindset and your ability to keeping fighting. Prayers to you and your familia amigo. God is good.”
Dana White Reveals He Reached Out to Ben Askren’s Wife During Hospitalization
During an appearance on the Full Send Podcast this week, Dana White reacted to the first video of Askren in the hospital, revealing that he did in fact reach out to Askren’s wife during the ordeal.
“He doesn’t even look the same, it’s f—king such a trip. You know the kind of shape you’ve got to be in to go through what that f—king guy just went through? It’s unbelievable. … I reached out to his wife a few times during the- but you know, she- I’m sure was an absolute f—king wreck. But it’s good to see him wake up.”
As Askren indicated, given that he’s getting stronger every day, the hope is that he’ll be released from the hospital soon.
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