Askren Vs. Masvidal 2: Will There Be A Rematch?

The world of MMA is filled with unforgettable moments, and one that continues to spark debate is the legendary clash between Ben Askren and Jorge Masvidal. Guys, remember that flying knee? It's been years since that blazing five-second knockout at UFC 239, but fans are still buzzing about a potential rematch. Let's dive into the likelihood of Askren vs. Masvidal 2 actually happening, exploring the fighters' current situations, their history, and what it would take to see them face off again.

The Original Showdown: A Five-Second Masterpiece

Jorge Masvidal's devastating knockout of Ben Askren at UFC 239 is etched in MMA history. Before the fight, there was a lot of trash talk and bad blood between the two fighters. Askren, known for his wrestling prowess and unconventional striking, had quickly become a polarizing figure in the UFC. Masvidal, a seasoned veteran with a reputation for exciting fights, was looking to make a statement. As soon as the bell rang, Masvidal sprinted across the Octagon and launched a perfectly timed flying knee that landed flush on Askren's head, instantly ending the fight. The speed and brutality of the knockout were shocking, and it immediately went viral. Masvidal's highlight-reel victory catapulted him into superstardom, while Askren's career took a significant hit. The fight became an instant meme, with countless replays and parodies circulating online. For Masvidal, it was the beginning of a career resurgence that saw him capture the "BMF" title and challenge for the UFC welterweight championship. For Askren, it was a devastating loss that ultimately contributed to his decision to retire from MMA. The brevity and shocking nature of the fight have made it a lasting memory for MMA fans, and the question of whether Askren would ever seek revenge has lingered ever since. This single moment defined their careers in many ways, cementing Masvidal's legacy as a knockout artist and marking a turning point for Askren.

Ben Askren: From Wrestling Phenom to MMA Analyst

Ben Askren's journey from Olympic wrestler to MMA fighter was marked by both success and controversy. Before entering the world of MMA, Askren was an accomplished wrestler, representing the United States at the 2008 Beijing Olympics. His transition to MMA saw him become a champion in Bellator and ONE Championship, where he dominated opponents with his wrestling-heavy style. Askren's grappling skills were top-notch, and he often overwhelmed his opponents with his relentless takedowns and control on the ground. However, his striking was often criticized, and he was sometimes seen as a less exciting fighter to watch. When Askren finally joined the UFC in 2019, there was a lot of anticipation about how he would fare against the top welterweights in the world. His UFC debut was a controversial victory over Robbie Lawler, where he secured a bulldog choke that Lawler protested. The win was followed by the devastating loss to Masvidal, which significantly tarnished his reputation. After another loss to Demian Maia, Askren retired from MMA, citing hip issues that had plagued him for years. Since retiring, Askren has remained involved in the MMA community as an analyst and commentator. He provides insights and opinions on fights, often with his characteristic bluntness and humor. While he has expressed some interest in potential comeback fights, his focus seems to be on his commentary career and other ventures outside of active competition. Askren's wrestling background and analytical mind make him a valuable voice in the MMA world, and he continues to be a relevant figure despite no longer fighting. His legacy is complex, marked by wrestling achievements, MMA championships, and memorable moments, both good and bad, in the UFC.

Jorge Masvidal: The Street Fighter Turned Superstar

Jorge Masvidal's career is a testament to perseverance and the power of embracing one's true self. Before becoming a household name in the UFC, Masvidal was a seasoned veteran of the sport, honing his skills in backyard brawls and smaller MMA promotions. His fighting style, characterized by his crisp boxing, vicious kicks, and uncompromising toughness, earned him a loyal following. Masvidal's journey to the top was not always smooth, and he faced numerous setbacks and challenges along the way. However, he always remained true to himself, never compromising his style or his personality. The knockout of Askren was a pivotal moment in Masvidal's career, transforming him from a respected veteran into a global superstar. He capitalized on the momentum, capturing the "BMF" title against Nate Diaz and challenging Kamaru Usman for the UFC welterweight championship twice. Although he was unsuccessful in his title bids, Masvidal's popularity continued to soar, and he became one of the biggest draws in the UFC. Known for his swagger, charisma, and no-nonsense attitude, Masvidal has become a role model for many aspiring fighters. He represents the idea that hard work, dedication, and authenticity can lead to success, even in the face of adversity. Beyond his fighting career, Masvidal has also become a successful entrepreneur, launching his own mezcal brand and managing fighters. His journey from street fighter to superstar is an inspiring story of overcoming obstacles and achieving greatness. Masvidal's impact on the sport extends beyond his in-cage accomplishments, making him a true icon of MMA.

Could a Rematch Actually Happen?

Guys, let's be real, the chances of Ben Askren vs. Jorge Masvidal 2 are pretty slim, but not entirely impossible. Several factors would need to align to make this fight a reality. Firstly, Askren would need to be fully committed to a comeback. While he has teased the possibility of returning to fighting, he seems content with his current role as an analyst. Secondly, Masvidal would need to be on board. He is currently focused on his own career and legacy, and a rematch with Askren may not be his top priority. Thirdly, the UFC would need to be interested in promoting the fight. While the history between the two fighters is compelling, the UFC may prefer to focus on matchups that have more immediate relevance to the title picture. Additionally, Askren's current physical condition is a factor. He has undergone hip surgery and has not competed in MMA for several years. It would take a significant amount of training and preparation for him to be ready to face a fighter like Masvidal. Moreover, the risk-reward ratio for both fighters needs to make sense. For Masvidal, a win over Askren would not do much to enhance his reputation, while a loss would be devastating. For Askren, the opportunity to avenge his loss to Masvidal may be appealing, but he would need to weigh the potential benefits against the risks. Despite these challenges, the allure of a rematch is undeniable. The history between Askren and Masvidal, combined with the shocking nature of their first fight, would undoubtedly generate a lot of interest from fans. Whether or not that interest is enough to overcome the obstacles remains to be seen.

The Key Obstacles to Askren vs. Masvidal 2

Several key obstacles stand in the way of a potential Askren vs. Masvidal 2 rematch. Askren's retirement is a major hurdle. He has been out of active competition for several years and has undergone significant surgeries. Getting back into fighting shape would require a tremendous amount of dedication and hard work. Masvidal's career trajectory is another factor. He is currently focused on competing against top contenders in the welterweight division and pursuing another title shot. A rematch with Askren may not align with his goals. UFC's priorities also play a role. The UFC is always looking for the most marketable and competitive matchups. While Askren vs. Masvidal 2 would generate some buzz, it may not be as appealing as other potential fights involving Masvidal. Askren's health and physical condition are also concerns. His hip issues and time away from the sport could make it difficult for him to compete at a high level. The risk-reward ratio for both fighters needs to be carefully considered. Masvidal has more to lose than gain from a rematch, while Askren would be taking a significant risk by returning to face a dangerous opponent like Masvidal. Contractual obligations could also be a factor. Both fighters would need to be under contract with the UFC or another major MMA promotion to make the fight happen. Negotiations and financial considerations would also need to be addressed. Both fighters would need to agree on the financial terms of the fight, which could be a point of contention. Scheduling and logistical challenges could also arise. Finding a suitable date and venue for the fight would require coordination between the fighters, their management teams, and the promotion. Overcoming these obstacles would require a concerted effort from all parties involved. While the possibility of a rematch is intriguing, the challenges are significant.

Alternative Scenarios: What Else Could Happen?

While Askren vs. Masvidal 2 remains a long shot, there are other potential scenarios that could play out involving these two fighters. One possibility is that Askren could continue to work as an MMA analyst and commentator. He has proven to be a valuable voice in the MMA community, and his insights and opinions are often sought after. Another scenario is that Masvidal could continue to pursue his goals in the welterweight division. He is still a top contender and could potentially earn another title shot with a few impressive wins. Askren could explore other ventures outside of MMA. He has expressed interest in business and other opportunities, and he could potentially focus on those areas. Masvidal could become more involved in promoting and managing fighters. He has already started his own management company, and he could expand his role in that area. Askren could participate in exhibition matches or grappling events. This would allow him to stay active in the combat sports world without the risks of full-fledged MMA competition. Masvidal could continue to be a role model and mentor for young fighters. He has inspired many aspiring athletes with his story and could continue to have a positive impact on the sport. Askren and Masvidal could collaborate on a non-fighting project. They could potentially work together on a business venture or a charitable cause. Masvidal could transition into acting or other entertainment roles. He has the charisma and personality to succeed in those areas. While these scenarios are speculative, they highlight the diverse range of possibilities for Askren and Masvidal beyond a potential rematch. Their careers have taken different paths since their first encounter, and they each have unique opportunities to pursue in the future.

Conclusion: Never Say Never in MMA

In the unpredictable world of MMA, never say never. While the odds of seeing Ben Askren and Jorge Masvidal face off again seem slim, anything is possible. The allure of a rematch, the history between the two fighters, and the potential for a thrilling storyline could be enough to overcome the obstacles. Whether it happens or not, the original five-second knockout will forever be etched in MMA lore. For now, we can only speculate and dream about what could be. So, guys, keep your eyes peeled, because in the world of mixed martial arts, you never know what might happen next! The possibility, however remote, keeps the flame alive for fans who remember that electrifying night at UFC 239. The unpredictability of MMA is part of what makes it so compelling, and the story of Askren vs. Masvidal is a perfect example of that. Only time will tell if these two will ever cross paths in the Octagon again, but one thing is certain: their first encounter will never be forgotten.