One of the great innovators of the sport of wrestling, 'Funky' Ben Askren pushed the limits of folkstyle scrambling during his incredible wrestling career at the University of Missouri. Askren was a four-time NCAA finalist and a two-time NCAA Champion, in 2006 and 2007 at 174-pounds, winning the Hodge Trophy in both seasons. Askren was instrumental in leading the Brian Smith-coached Tiger program to national prominence.
Ben Askren Reflects On His Last Wrestling Match
Jul 20, 2026
Ben Askren couldn't sit up on his own just one year ago. Yesterday he wrestled a match against former UFC Champion Belal Muhammad at RAF 11. Ben lost the match but won the hearts of fans across the globe. He reflects on the match and the journey he has been on ever since getting a double lung transplant last summer.
