Ben Askren’s Comeback: A Story of Resilience, Perspective, and the Human Spirit
What does it mean to truly defy the odds? To stare death in the face, rebuild your body from scratch, and then step back into the arena—not out of obligation, but out of sheer joy? That’s the question Ben Askren’s story forces us to grapple with. A year after nearly losing his life to a staph infection that spiraled into pneumonia and required a double lung transplant, the former UFC fighter is set to compete in a wrestling match on his 42nd birthday. Personally, I think this isn’t just a comeback—it’s a masterclass in resilience and a profound shift in perspective.
From the Brink of Death to the Mat: What This Really Means
Let’s pause for a moment and consider the gravity of this. A year ago, Askren was in a coma, weighing just 63kg, unable to walk, speak, or eat. He “died four times,” as he puts it. Now, he’s stepping into a wrestling match against Belal Muhammad, a former UFC welterweight champion. What makes this particularly fascinating is the way Askren frames it. He’s not here to prove anything to anyone—not his critics, not his fans, and certainly not himself. He’s doing it because he wants to. In his own words, “I get to go wrestle. That’s it for me. I am so happy.”
This raises a deeper question: How often do we lose sight of the joy in what we do? Askren’s near-death experience has stripped away the noise—the pressure to win, the need to perform, the ego. What’s left is pure, unadulterated love for the sport. From my perspective, this is a rare and beautiful thing in a world where athletes are often defined by their wins and losses.
The Surreal Nature of Second Chances
One thing that immediately stands out is the surreal timing of this match. It’s taking place in Milwaukee, Askren’s hometown, on his birthday. A year ago, he was begging nurses to let him go home for his birthday, only to be denied because he couldn’t even stand up. Now, he’s celebrating by doing what he loves most. What this really suggests is that life has a way of coming full circle—but only if you’re willing to fight for it.
What many people don’t realize is how transformative a brush with mortality can be. Askren’s perspective on life has shifted dramatically. He’s no longer worried about winning or losing; he’s just grateful to be alive. This isn’t just a physical comeback; it’s a spiritual one. If you take a step back and think about it, this is a reminder that sometimes the greatest victories aren’t measured in trophies or titles, but in the simple act of being present.
Wrestling as a Metaphor for Life
Askren’s journey from wrestling to MMA, then to a boxing loss against Jake Paul, and now back to wrestling, is a fascinating narrative arc. It’s not just about the sports; it’s about the cycles of life. Wrestling, in particular, feels like a metaphor for his story—a constant struggle, a relentless push to get back up. A detail that I find especially interesting is that this match is a one-off for him. He’s not trying to relaunch a career or prove his dominance. He’s doing it because it feels right.
This brings me to a broader observation: How often do we force ourselves into paths that no longer serve us? Askren’s decision to return to wrestling, not as a professional obligation but as a personal choice, is a powerful statement about autonomy and passion. It’s a reminder that sometimes the most meaningful things we do are the ones we choose freely, without external pressure.
The Broader Implications: What Askren’s Story Teaches Us
Askren’s comeback isn’t just about him. It’s about all of us. It’s about the human capacity to endure, to adapt, and to find joy in the face of adversity. What makes this story so compelling is its universality. We’ve all faced moments where we’ve had to start over, whether physically, emotionally, or professionally. Askren’s journey is a testament to the fact that starting over isn’t a defeat—it’s an opportunity.
In my opinion, this is also a commentary on the culture of sports. We often glorify athletes for their wins, but Askren’s story challenges us to celebrate them for their humanity. His willingness to be vulnerable, to share his recovery on social media, and to return to the mat not as a conqueror but as a participant, is what makes him truly remarkable.
Final Thoughts: The Beauty of a Life Reclaimed
As I reflect on Askren’s story, I’m struck by the simplicity of his joy. He’s not wrestling to win; he’s wrestling because he can. That, to me, is the ultimate victory. It’s a reminder that life isn’t about the battles we win or lose, but about the moments we choose to embrace.
So, as Askren steps onto the mat in Milwaukee, I’ll be watching not just as a fan of the sport, but as someone deeply inspired by his journey. Because in the end, this isn’t just a wrestling match—it’s a celebration of life, resilience, and the human spirit. And that, my friends, is something worth cheering for.
