Funky but Fierce:

Funky but Fierce: In the world of combat sports, where brute force and knockout power often define greatness, Ben Askren carved a lane entirely his own—one filled with funk, flair, and unshakable confidence. how the sport viewed wrestling, strategy, and even personality.

From Olympic wrestling mats to Bellator cages, ONE Championship rings, and eventually the UFC—and even a surprising detour into celebrity boxing—Ben Askren’s career is a testament to the fact that you don’t have to be conventional to be legendary.

A Wrestling Prodigy with a “Funky” Twist

Askren’s story began long before the octagon. . But it wasn’t just his skill that caught people’s attention—it was his unique, unorthodox style.

Nicknamed “Funky” for his scrambling technique and unusual positioning, Askren confounded opponents with moves that didn’t look textbook—but always got the job done. His collegiate wrestling career at the University of Missouri was nothing short of historic. Askren was a two-time NCAA Division I national champion and a four-time finalist, compiling a staggering 87-match win streak.

In 2008, he represented the United States at the Beijing Olympics. Though he didn’t medal, the journey solidified Askren’s place among elite wrestlers. But his competitive fire was far from burned out.

From Grappling to Ground and Pound: Transition to MMA

When Askren transitioned to MMA in 2009, many questioned whether his wrestling-heavy approach would translate in a sport increasingly dominated by strikers and well-rounded fighters. Askren didn’t just prove them wrong—he made dominance look effortless.

His early rise in Bellator was a clinic in control. He went undefeated in the promotion, using suffocating top pressure, relentless takedowns, and cage IQ to neutralize opponents. While some fans criticized his fights for lacking excitement, purists admired his mastery of wrestling as a weapon.

In 2013, Askren took his talents to ONE Championship, where he continued his undefeated streak and claimed the Welterweight title. His performances were dominant, often leaving opponents frustrated and fans amazed. By the time he retired in 2017, Askren had a pristine record of 18-0, plus one No Contest.

The UFC Finally Comes Calling

Askren’s absence from the UFC had long been a point of speculation and debate. A vocal critic of UFC management and an unapologetic personality, many believed Dana White would never sign him. But in 2019, a unique “trade” between UFC and ONE Championship saw Demetrious “Mighty Mouse” Johnson head to Asia while Askren entered the UFC roster.

His debut at UFC 235 was already drenched in drama. He faced Robbie Lawler, a feared striker and former champion. Askren survived a brutal early onslaught and controversially won via bulldog choke. Some saw it as a fluke; others viewed it as the sign of a fighter who simply doesn’t break.

Then came the fight that would define—and in some ways, overshadow—his UFC career.

The Five Seconds That Changed Everything

At UFC 239, Ben Askren squared off against Jorge Masvidal. The hype was electric. Askren, undefeated and endlessly trash-talking, promised to dominate. Masvidal, streetwise and explosive, had other plans.

It was—and still is—the fastest knockout in UFC history.

The image of Askren lying motionless on the canvas became an internet sensation, a meme that spread like wildfire. For a fighter who thrived on confidence and control, it was a devastating blow—both professionally and personally.

But what followed would come to define Askren’s character more than any win ever could.

In the aftermath of the loss, Askren could’ve gone silent or defensive. Instead, he embraced the moment with humor and humility. He congratulated Masvidal, laughed at the memes, and gave interviews where he owned the loss without excuse.

In an era of fragile egos and media spin, Askren’s approach was refreshing. He reminded fans that even in defeat, athletes can show grace and resilience. He may have been knocked out, but he wasn’t broken.

A subsequent loss to Demian Maia, a jiu-jitsu legend, signaled the decline of Askren’s MMA career. He retired in 2019 and later revealed that chronic hip issues had affected his performance for years. He underwent a full hip replacement shortly after retiring.

The Jake Paul Episode: Legacy Meets Spectacle

In 2021, Askren made a surprising return—not to the cage, but to a boxing ring. He agreed to fight YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul, in what became a major crossover spectacle.

Askren showed up soft around the midsection, smiling and confident. But the result was another viral knockout—Paul stopped him in the first round. Critics pounced, mocking Askren’s striking and questioning his motivation. But once again, Askren took it all in stride. He admitted Paul was the better man that night and walked away richer, both financially and in experience.

A Lasting Legacy Beyond Wins and Losses

To reduce Ben Askren’s legacy to knockouts or highlight reels would be a mistake. His impact on combat sports is measured not by flashy finishes but by innovation, resilience, and authenticity.

He elevated wrestling’s role in MMA, inspiring a generation of fighters to embrace grappling as a dominant style.
He proved that personality sells, even when it’s quirky, sarcastic, or outside the norm.
He showed that loss doesn’t erase greatness—and that dignity in defeat is as important as glory in victory.

Askren is now a coach, podcast host, commentator, and father. His insights into the sport remain sharp, and his voice continues to shape how fans think about MMA and wrestling.

Final Thoughts: Funky, Fierce, and Forever Respected

Ben Askren may not have gone undefeated. He may not have claimed UFC gold. But in every way that matters, he is a champion of the sport. His story is a reminder that greatness isn’t always about perfection—it’s about showing up, being yourself, and daring to compete your way.