Ben Askren returns to wrestling mat after surgery, loses to Belal Muhammad
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 19, 2026, 4:47 AM
Last updated Jul 19, 2026
Ben Askren made his return to the wrestling mat on July 18, 2026, competing in the co-main event of RAF 11 held in Milwaukee. After undergoing double lung transplant surgery a year ago, Askren faced Belal Muhammad but was defeated 6-3 in the match. This comeback marks a significant moment in Askren's career following a serious health challenge, showcasing his resilience and determination to return to competition. The match serves as a crucial step in his post-surgery journey.
- •Askren returns to wrestling after a year-long recovery.
- •He lost 6-3 to Belal Muhammad at RAF 11.
- •Event took place in Milwaukee on July 18, 2026.
- •The match represents Askren's resilience following surgery.
- 7:09 AMYahoo Sports — Askren completes recovery with loss in wrestling return
- 7:09 AMBBC Sport — Askren retires after remarkable return a year after almost dying
- 5:33 AMESPN — Askren makes emotional return to mat after illness...
"A year removed from double lung transplant surgery, Ben Askren returned to the wrestling mat and lost 6-3 to Belal Muhammad in the co-main event of RAF 11 in Milwaukee.
"Ben Askren ends his career with a points loss in a wrestling match with another former UFC fighter Belal Muhammad.
"Ben Askren ends his career with a points loss in a wrestling match with another former UFC fighter Belal Muhammad.
Sources
External links- Yahoo SportsJul 19, 2026, 7:09 AMAskren completes recovery with loss in wrestling return
Ben Askren ends his career with a points loss in a wrestling match with another former UFC fighter Belal Muhammad.
- BBC SportJul 19, 2026, 7:09 AMAskren retires after remarkable return a year after almost dying
Ben Askren ends his career with a points loss in a wrestling match with another former UFC fighter Belal Muhammad.
- ESPNJul 19, 2026, 5:33 AMAskren makes emotional return to mat after illness...
A year removed from double lung transplant surgery, Ben Askren returned to the wrestling mat and lost 6-3 to Belal Muhammad in the co-main event of RAF 11 in Milwaukee.
Original reporting and copyright belong to the linked sources. SportsNewsReport.com aggregates and links — it does not republish full articles.
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