Ben Askren leads early in final match before losing to Belal Muhammad

Ben Askren returned to competitive wrestling at RAF 11 in Milwaukee on July 20, 2026, facing Belal Muhammad. Askren took an early lead but lost the match 6-3 after his stamina faltered in the third period. He had recently recovered from a double lung transplant and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to compete again. This match concluded Askren's wrestling career, as he confirmed in a post-match interview. He reflected on his struggles, indicating he could not perform as he wished in the final moments of the contest.

• 7:07 AMYahoo Sports — Ben Askren had the lead in final wrestling match after double lung transplant; then his body gave out.