Former MMA fighter and Olympic wrestler Ben Askren has spoken out for the first time since receiving a double lung transplant following a battle with pneumonia.
In a video posted to Instagram on Wednesday, Askren, 40, said he has “no idea what happened” from May 28 to July 2, and only pieced together the month-plus period through his wife, Amy’s, personal journal.
“It’s like a movie. It’s ridiculous,” he said in the clip. “So, I only died four times, where the ticker stopped for about 20 seconds. That’s not ideal. I don’t think you guys know that. But I got the double lung transplant. I made it out to the other side of it, gaining quite a bit of strength.”
Askren said he dropped to 147 pounds since late May, losing 50 pounds over a 45-day period.
Since regaining consciousness, Askren said he’s overwhelmed with the “outpouring of love” from his supporters.
“I’m more motivated than ever to keep giving back and do what I can and help out the best I can help out,” Askren said.
“I love you guys. I appreciate you guys. This has been tough, not only on me, but my whole family and my close community. So, I appreciate everything. Hope you guys appreciate the update. And like I said, sometime down the road, maybe Amy and I can detail everything a little more.”
update. Ben Askren/Instagram
Askren’s wife had been updating his fans on his condition, asking for thoughts and prayers along the way.
In late June, Amy revealed that a donor for a new set of lungs had been found, and Askren underwent a successful transplant procedure.
“We are so thankful to share that Ben has received a double lung transplant. We are forever thankful to the donor and his family,” Amy wrote. “This is the beginning of a new lifestyle for Ben, but every new day he has is a gift. It still doesn’t feel real that he was walking around completely healthy just 5 weeks ago. So much can change so quickly.”
Askren holds a 19-2 MMA record across his career, including Bellator and ONE titles.
He had a very brief UFC career, going 1-2 before retiring from the promotion in 2019.
Askren was also a member of the 2008 U.S. wrestling team in the Beijing Olympics.