From Olympic Wrestler to MMA Icon – Why He’s Trending in 2025
Ben Askren: From Olympic Wrestler to MMA Icon – Why He’s Trending in 2025
Ben Askren is a retired American mixed martial artist, Olympic wrestler, and wrestling coach. Known by his nickname “Funky”, Askren built a reputation for his unorthodox fighting style, elite grappling, and outspoken personality. His career spans Olympic mats to UFC octagons, making him a household name in the world of combat sports.
Ben Askren’s Career Highlights
🥇 Olympic Wrestling
- Two-time NCAA Division I Champion (University of Missouri)
- U.S. Olympic Team Member at the 2008 Beijing Olympics
- Revolutionized wrestling with his creative “funk” style
🥋 MMA Success
- Bellator Welterweight Champion – remained undefeated
- ONE Championship Welterweight Champion
- Joined the UFC in 2019 with high expectations
- Famous for suffering the fastest KO in UFC history (5 seconds vs. Jorge Masvidal)
🥊 Boxing Match vs. Jake Paul
In 2021, Askren faced off with YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul in a widely publicized boxing match. Although Askren lost via first-round TKO, the fight generated millions of views and placed him back in the media spotlight.
Why Is Ben Askren Trending in 2025?
Ben Askren remains a trending topic in 2025 due to his continued impact in sports and media:
- Active on social media – offers humorous, honest takes on MMA, wrestling, and life
- Coaching young athletes through the Askren Wrestling Academy
- Popular guest on podcasts and sports panels
- Commentator and analyst for major MMA events
What Is Ben Askren Doing Now?
Since retiring, Askren has focused on coaching, public speaking, and content creation:
- Runs several youth wrestling programs across the U.S.
- Hosts and appears on MMA and motivational podcasts
- Shares life advice, fitness tips, and fight commentary online
Related Searches (2025)
- Ben Askren 2025 update
- Ben Askren vs Jake Paul full fight
- Ben Askren’s coaching career
- Fastest UFC knockout
- Funky Ben Askren podcast
