Ben Askren competes at RAF 11 after double-lung transplant
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 22, 2026, 1:01 PM
Last updated Jul 22, 2026
Ben Askren participated in RAF 11 against Belal Muhammad on July 22, marking his first match since a double-lung transplant last year. Although Askren felt capable on the day, he expressed disappointment in his cardio, noting that he struggled to maintain energy in the final moments of the match. Muhammad ultimately outperformed Askren, but the event highlighted Askren's resilience following a critical illness. Despite the outcome, Askren described the experience as powerful and encouraging, indicating recovery progress.
- •Askren faced Belal Muhammad in his farewell match at RAF 11.
- •This was Askren's first competition since a double-lung transplant.
- •He felt normal initially but struggled with cardio during the match.
- •Askren acknowledged losing to Muhammad, but found the event rewarding.
- •The crowd's support and event production were highlighted as impressive.
- 1:01 PMYahoo Sports — Ben Askren says legs, not lungs, failed him in RAF 11 farewell match
"Ben Askren admits he didn't know how his body would perform at RAF 11 against Belal Muhammad.
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