Ben Askren reveals heartbreaking journal entry as former UFC star provides new health update following lung transplant

Ben Askren has taken to social media to give fans an update on his health following lung transplant.

Last month, the former UFC and Olympic fighter was taken to the hospital due to what was described as 'severe' pneumonia, which stemmed from a staph infection.

The 40-year-old has been in the hospital ever since and has been in a critical condition, and also on a ventilator.

Askren’s wife, Amy, revealed that her husband was placed on the donor list for a lung transplant last month.

At the end of June, it was confirmed by Amy that Askren had received a double lung transplant.

On Saturday, Askren took to social media to post a video update on his condition, with a caption that read: "Quick update…I will not feel sorry for myself."

He began: "What's up, guys. Just want to give an update on how I'm doing. Everything is going pretty well, and I will do this journal entry, it's from our friend, Amber. I actually thought my wife wrote it, that was a mistake."

Reacting in the comments section, one fan said: "Looking much better Ben."

Another tweeted: "Ben. God has a plan for you. You’re incredibly strong. I wish you and your family well. I personally hope you help as many others as you can in your future journey."

A third fan added: "That's the right mindset. That type of attitude will get Ben further than he ever was."

Someone else wrote: "Get well soon! Future podcasts will be fire."

A fifth commented: "Looken AMAZING brother! 100x better than that first video!"

Another fan said: "You are inspirational! You are a fighter and you will come out victorious. Get well were are behind you champ." You can watch the footage below.

Quick update…I will not feel sorry for myself. pic.twitter.com/wzLzlNGsRE

— Funky 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸 (@Benaskren) July 12, 2025

Previously, Askren stated that he had no recollection of what happened over the last few weeks.

He said: "No recollection, zero idea, no idea what happened. I just read through my wife’s journal. It’s like a movie. It’s ridiculous. I only died four times, where the ticker stopped for about 20 seconds.

"The thing that was most impeccable to me was all the love I felt. It was almost like I got to have my own funeral."