Ben Askren's Best Moments

What's up, fight fans! Today, we're diving deep into the legendary career of Ben Askren, a guy who shook up both the wrestling and MMA worlds. If you're new here, buckle up, because we're about to break down some of his most iconic moments. Askren wasn't just another fighter; he was a wrestling phenom who transitioned to MMA with a style that was as effective as it was frustrating for his opponents. Known for his suffocating control and relentless pressure, "Funky" Ben carved out a unique niche for himself, proving that a dominant grappling game could indeed translate to success in the octagon and beyond. His journey is a testament to strategic brilliance and an unwavering commitment to his craft. We'll be exploring his amateur wrestling triumphs, his undefeated streak in ONE Championship, and those unforgettable moments in ONE Championship and the UFC that had everyone talking. So, grab your favorite snack, settle in, and let's get into the highlights of this truly one-of-a-kind athlete. We're talking about a fighter who didn't just win; he dominated in a way that few could replicate. His transition from a collegiate wrestling legend to a professional mixed martial artist wasn't just a career change; it was a mission to prove that his unique skillset could conquer any discipline. The wrestling world already knew Ben Askren as a force of nature, a multiple-time All-American and NCAA champion. But the MMA world? They were about to get a serious education in ground-and-pound, funky style. His early days in MMA were marked by a series of emphatic victories, each one showcasing his masterful control and ability to neutralize even the most dangerous strikers. He was like a human boa constrictor, wrapping up his opponents and dictating the pace of the fight with an almost effortless efficiency. This wasn't just about winning; it was about imposing his will, about demonstrating the sheer power of a well-executed wrestling game plan. Many questioned whether such a specialized style could truly succeed against the diverse skill sets found in professional MMA, but Askren was determined to silence the doubters, one dominant performance at a time. His undefeated record spoke volumes, but it was the way he won that truly set him apart. He wasn't flashy, he wasn't a knockout artist in the traditional sense, but he was incredibly effective, grinding down opponents with a relentless pressure that left them with no answers.

The NCAA Division I Champion

Before he was "Funky" Ben Askren the MMA fighter, he was Ben Askren the wrestling machine. And let's be clear, guys, his collegiate wrestling career was nothing short of legendary. We're talking about a two-time NCAA Division I national champion at the University of Missouri. Seriously, imagine being that good. He didn't just win; he dominated. His senior year, he went undefeated, a perfect 42-0, and captured his second title. But it wasn't just the wins; it was the way he won. Askren was known for his unique, almost unorthodox wrestling style, hence the nickname "Funky." He had this incredible ability to scramble, to find weird angles, and to just completely stifle his opponents' offense while creating his own. This wasn't your textbook wrestling; this was Askren-style wrestling, a fluid, almost dance-like approach that opponents just couldn't figure out. His matches were a masterclass in control, often ending with him on top, racking up points and frustrating his rivals. Many collegiate wrestlers have incredible careers, but Askren's stood out because of his dominance and the sheer innovation he brought to the sport. He wasn't afraid to try things that others wouldn't, and it paid off in spades. He earned the nickname "Funky" for a reason, and that distinct style was already on full display during his time on the mat. This was the foundation upon which his future MMA career would be built, a testament to the power of specialized skill and relentless dedication. He became a household name in the wrestling community, a true inspiration to aspiring grapplers everywhere. His achievements weren't just personal triumphs; they elevated the profile of the sport and inspired a new generation of athletes to embrace their unique strengths. The NCAA championships were the pinnacle of his amateur career, a stage where he showcased his extraordinary talent to the world. The sheer grit and determination he displayed were remarkable, embodying the spirit of a true champion. It's easy to see why so many fans were captivated by his journey, even before he stepped foot into the MMA cage. His record wasn't just a series of wins; it was a narrative of dominance, a story of an athlete who refused to be beaten and consistently pushed the boundaries of what was thought possible in collegiate wrestling. This era of his career set the stage for an even more significant impact on the world of combat sports.

Undefeated Reign in ONE Championship

Alright, so after conquering the wrestling world, Ben Askren decided to take his talents to MMA, and man, did he make a statement. His run in ONE Championship was absolutely phenomenal. He joined the promotion in 2014 and embarked on an undefeated streak that saw him capture the ONE Welterweight Championship. We're talking about a guy who went 6-0 in ONE, with most of those wins coming by way of dominant decision or TKO. He was like a human roadblock, and opponents just couldn't find a way around him. Askren's wrestling background was on full display here. He would take guys down, control them on the ground, and just suffocate their offense. It wasn't always the most exciting stuff for casual fans, but it was incredibly effective. He was so good at controlling the pace and denying his opponents any space to operate. He literally wrestled circles around guys who were supposed to be elite strikers. His signature move, the "Flying Armbar" attempt, though not always successful, became a fan favorite and a symbol of his unorthodox approach. It showed he was willing to take risks and try for the spectacular, even within his dominant grappling framework. His championship reign was a masterclass in strategic dominance. He defended his title multiple times, facing tough competition and coming out on top every single time. This period solidified his reputation as one of the best welterweights outside the UFC, a true force to be reckoned with. He proved that his unique style, honed through years of elite wrestling, was more than capable of succeeding on the biggest stages in Asia. The respect he garnered during this time was immense, as he consistently delivered performances that showcased his superior grappling and fight IQ. Askren wasn't just winning fights; he was dismantling opponents, leaving them with no clear path to victory. This undefeated spell in ONE Championship was a critical chapter in his career, building anticipation for what might come next. It was a period where "Funky" Ben truly established himself as a legitimate world-class fighter, leaving an indelible mark on the promotion and its history. His performances were a clear indication that he was a different breed of fighter, one whose unconventional methods yielded exceptional results. The belt around his waist was a tangible symbol of his dominance, but the respect he earned from fans and fellow fighters was perhaps even more valuable. He proved that a fighter didn't need to be a flashy knockout artist to be a champion; strategic brilliance and an iron will could be just as, if not more, effective. The ONE Championship era was where Ben Askren truly began to shine on the international stage, setting the stage for his eventual move to the UFC.

The UFC Debut and Iconic Moments

Okay, so the move to the UFC was HUGE for Ben Askren, and boy, did it deliver some unforgettable moments, even if they weren't always the wins we might have expected. His debut against Robbie Lawler was nothing short of insane. Askren lost via controversial split decision, but the fight itself was a rollercoaster. He dominated early, even getting dropped by a brutal Lawler uppercut, and then managed to survive and come back. That fight alone showed his incredible toughness and heart. Then came the Jorge Masvidal fight. This one is etched in MMA history, guys. Masvidal knocked Askren out with a flying knee just 5 seconds into the first round. FIVE SECONDS! It was brutal, it was shocking, and it became the fastest knockout in UFC history at the time. Askren, ever the good sport (mostly!), took it in stride, famously saying, "It is what it is." That knockout, while devastating, didn't define his entire UFC tenure, but it certainly became one of his most talked-about moments. Despite the ups and downs, Askren's time in the UFC, though short, was packed with drama and memorable exchanges. He faced tough competition and brought his unique style to the biggest MMA promotion in the world. His fights, win or lose, always generated buzz because of his personality and his unconventional approach to fighting. He wasn't afraid to speak his mind, and his "Funky" persona made him a captivating figure. Even after the KO loss, he bounced back with a win over Demian Maia, showing that he still had the skills to compete at the highest level. That win against Maia, a submission specialist, was a testament to his grappling prowess. He weathered the storm and secured a victory, proving his resilience. While his UFC career might not have ended with the fairy tale ending some envisioned, his impact was undeniable. He brought his unique brand of wrestling-heavy MMA to a new audience and left a legacy of exciting, albeit sometimes controversial, fights. The Masvidal knockout, though painful, is a moment that will forever be replayed, a reminder of the unpredictable nature of MMA. Askren's time in the UFC was a whirlwind, filled with highs and lows that captivated fans worldwide. He showed the world that even in defeat, "Funky" Ben could be an unforgettable force. The fight against Lawler, in particular, showcased his ability to absorb punishment and keep fighting, a true testament to his grit. Even his losses were memorable, adding to the intrigue surrounding his career. His brief but impactful stint in the UFC cemented his status as a unique and beloved figure in the sport, leaving fans with plenty of moments to remember and discuss for years to come. The speed of the Masvidal knockout was truly astonishing, a highlight that transcended the sport itself.

Beyond the Cage: Boxing and Legacy

So, Ben Askren didn't just stop after his MMA career, oh no! He jumped into the boxing world for a highly publicized fight against Jake Paul. This was a massive event, guys, and it brought a whole new audience to combat sports. While Askren ultimately lost via knockout, the fight itself was significant. It showcased his willingness to step outside his comfort zone and compete against a completely different type of opponent. Askren, the lifelong grappler, stepping into the boxing ring against a rising boxing star was a bold move. It highlighted his adventurous spirit and his desire to continue challenging himself. The fight garnered millions of views and sparked conversations about crossover athletes and the evolving landscape of combat sports. It proved that "Funky" Ben could still draw a crowd, even outside of his primary discipline. This crossover appeal is a huge part of his legacy. He wasn't just an MMA fighter; he was an entertainer, a personality who could capture the public's imagination. His journey from NCAA champion to ONE FC kingpin to UFC contender, and finally to a boxing ring, is a story of constant evolution and a refusal to be boxed in (pun intended!). Askren's legacy is multifaceted. He's remembered as one of the most dominant collegiate wrestlers of his era, a pioneer in MMA grappling, and a personality who transcended the sport. He proved that a unique skillset, coupled with an unwavering belief in oneself, could lead to success in multiple combat disciplines. He inspired many with his dedication and his willingness to take on new challenges. Even in his losses, there was a certain respect earned due to his courage and his candi. He wasn't afraid to be himself, and that authenticity resonated with fans. The impact he had on the sport, particularly in showcasing the effectiveness of wrestling in MMA, is undeniable. He paved the way for other wrestlers to transition successfully into mixed martial arts, demonstrating that a strong grappling foundation is a critical asset. His influence extends beyond the results of his fights; it lies in the inspiration he provided to aspiring athletes and the memorable moments he created along the way. Whether you loved him or loved to hate him, Ben Askren left an undeniable mark on the world of combat sports, proving that "Funky" is a style all its own. His willingness to engage with the fans and his often humorous take on the fight game made him a truly unique figure. The Jake Paul fight, despite the outcome, was a testament to his enduring appeal and his continued relevance in the combat sports landscape. It was a fitting, if unconventional, chapter in the story of a fighter who consistently defied expectations and embraced the spotlight.