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Ben Askren to compete in wrestling match one year after lung transplant

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 18, 2026, 11:17 AM

Last updated Jul 18, 2026

Ben Askren to compete in wrestling match one year after lung transplant
Summary

Ben Askren is scheduled to wrestle against Belal Muhammad on July 18 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, marking a remarkable recovery from a near-fatal illness. After experiencing multiple health crises, including a double lung transplant last year, Askren expressed that being able to compete feels surreal. This fight coincides with his 42nd birthday, and he stated it will be a one-off event. The match is part of a card featuring other former UFC fighters, Colby Covington and Arman Tsarukyan.

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Key Details
  • •Askren is returning to competition on his 42nd birthday.
  • •He had a double lung transplant and was in a coma for 37 days.
  • •The match is organized by Real American Freestyle.
  • •Askren described his previous year as life-changing.
  • •The fight against Muhammad is expected to be a one-time event.
Latest Updates
  • 11:18 AMYahoo Sports — Askren set to fight a year after almost dying
  • 11:17 AMBBC Sport — Askren set to fight a year after almost dying
What they're saying
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Former UFC fighter Ben Askren is set to complete a remarkable recovery by competing in a wrestling match on Saturday - a year after he almost died.

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Former UFC fighter Ben Askren is set to complete a remarkable recovery by competing in a wrestling match on Saturday - a year after he almost died.

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