Ben Askren's Epic Fight Highlights: Relive His Best Moments

Alright, guys, let's talk about one of the most polarizing, yet undeniably entertaining, figures to ever grace the world of mixed martial arts: Ben Askren. When you hear "Ben Askren fight highlights," you're not just thinking about a few quick knockouts; you're thinking about a whole vibe. This dude, known as "Funky," brought a unique, wrestling-heavy style that baffled opponents and, let's be honest, sometimes confused casual fans who were expecting pure striking fireworks. But for those who appreciate the intricacies of grappling and the sheer will of a relentless competitor, Ben Askren's fights were nothing short of spectacular. He wasn't just a fighter; he was a puzzle, and watching his opponents try (and mostly fail) to solve him was pure gold. His journey through Bellator, ONE Championship, and finally the UFC, created a tapestry of moments that are truly unforgettable MMA highlights. From his suffocating top control to his surprisingly effective ground and pound, Ben Askren was a force of nature. His career might have been shorter than some, but the impact he made and the memorable fights he delivered ensure that Ben Askren fight highlights will be replayed and discussed for years to come. We're talking about a guy who came into the highest levels of the sport with an undefeated record and a confidence that bordered on arrogance, backing it up with performances that, while not always pretty, were incredibly effective. This article isn't just a list; it's a deep dive into what made Ben Askren such a compelling athlete and why his fight highlights stand out in a sport full of superstars. Get ready to relive some seriously epic moments and understand why "Funky" Ben Askren carved out such a distinctive legacy.

The Rise of "Funky" Ben Askren: Early Career & Wrestling Dominance

Before we dive deep into the specific Ben Askren fight highlights in MMA, it's crucial to understand the foundation that made him such a unique and formidable competitor: his wrestling background. Ben Askren wasn't just a good wrestler; he was an elite wrestler, a two-time NCAA Division I National Champion at the University of Missouri and an Olympian. This isn't just a footnote; it's the entire bedrock of his fighting style. He dominated the collegiate wrestling scene with a relentless pace and an unorthodox, scramble-heavy approach that earned him the nickname "Funky." When he transitioned to mixed martial arts, many pundits wondered if such a purely grappling-focused style could truly succeed at the highest levels. Boy, did he prove them wrong! His early career in promotions like Bellator MMA was a testament to his belief in his own abilities and the overwhelming effectiveness of his wrestling. From his professional debut in 2009, Askren quickly racked up wins, showcasing a style characterized by relentless takedown attempts, suffocating top control, and an uncanny ability to find submissions or wear down opponents with ground and pound. These initial MMA fights might not always have been highlight-reel knockouts, but they were masterclasses in control and attrition. He defeated skilled opponents like Lyman Good to become the Bellator Welterweight Champion, defending his title multiple times against tough contenders. What made these fight highlights so compelling was seeing the frustration mount on his opponents' faces as they simply couldn't get away from him. He'd grab a leg, chain-wrestle, and eventually get them to the mat, where he was virtually unmovable. This wasn't just about winning; it was about imposing his will. His undefeated streak in Bellator, which included wins over Jay Hieron, Douglas Lima, and Andrey Koreshkov, demonstrated that his "Funky" style was not just effective but downright dominant. He was building a reputation as an unstoppable force, a truly unique talent who was redefining what it meant to be an exciting fighter, even without throwing a single flashy kick. His early career truly set the stage for the legendary Ben Askren fight highlights that would follow, establishing him as a grappling phenom destined for greatness, proving that pure wrestling could be a path to championship glory and undeniable entertainment for those who appreciated the craft.

ONE Championship Reign: A True Champion's Journey

After dominating Bellator, the legend of Ben Askren only grew stronger when he moved to ONE Championship, Asia's largest MMA promotion. This move truly cemented his status as a global grappling superstar, and his fights there added some incredibly compelling entries to the list of Ben Askren fight highlights. In ONE, Askren continued his undefeated streak, showcasing his absolutely suffocating wrestling and ground control against a fresh crop of elite talent. For fans who followed his career, these MMA fights in Asia were a continuation of his masterclass in controlling the pace and dictating where the fight took place. He wasn't just winning; he was dismantling his opponents, often making them look like beginners once the fight hit the mat. His debut in ONE was a quick TKO victory over Bakhtiyar Abbasov, setting the tone for what was to come. He then went on to capture the ONE Welterweight World Championship by defeating Nobutatsu Suzuki, showcasing his championship pedigree once again. The way he methodically broke down his opponents, never giving them an inch of space, and constantly working for submissions or dominant positions, was truly a sight to behold. These weren't just wins; they were statements. Each fight solidified his reputation as the most dominant grappler in the welterweight division outside of the UFC at the time. Opponents like Luis Santos, Agilan Thani, and Zebaztian Kadestam all fell victim to Askren's relentless pressure and elite wrestling. What made these fight highlights so impressive was his ability to adapt and maintain his dominance against various styles. Whether it was a striker or another grappler, Askren found a way to impose his will, often leading to finishes that highlighted his surprising power in ground and pound, or his technical prowess in securing submissions. His fight against Zebaztian Kadestam, for instance, perfectly illustrated his ability to control even dangerous strikers, eventually leading to a submission victory. Guys, these were the years where Ben Askren truly solidified his reputation as "The Funky One," a fighter who was simply unsolvable for most. His reign in ONE Championship was not just about maintaining an undefeated record; it was about demonstrating a consistent, high-level performance that highlighted his mastery of MMA grappling. He showed the world that a wrestling-first approach could not only win but also entertain in its own unique, strategic way, making every one of his ONE Championship bouts essential viewing for anyone studying Ben Askren fight highlights.

The UFC Chapter: High Stakes, Iconic Bouts, and Unforgettable Moments

When Ben Askren finally made the jump to the UFC in 2019, it was one of the most anticipated transfers in MMA history. The undefeated, trash-talking former Bellator and ONE Champion was finally stepping into the octagon against the best of the best, and the hype surrounding his Ben Askren fight highlights potential was through the roof. This was the moment everyone had been waiting for, a chance to see if his "Funky" style could truly stand up against the elite in the world's premier MMA organization. His short but impactful run in the UFC delivered some of the most talked-about and truly unforgettable moments in recent memory, for better or worse. Every one of these UFC fights became instant Ben Askren fight highlights, regardless of the outcome, simply because of the sheer drama and stakes involved. His debut against Robbie Lawler at UFC 235 was a wild ride from start to finish. Lawler, a former UFC Welterweight Champion known for his brutal striking, dropped Askren early and unleashed a flurry of ground and pound that had everyone on the edge of their seats. It looked like Askren's undefeated run was over in mere seconds. However, in true "Funky" fashion, Askren survived, weathered the storm, and eventually secured a bulldog choke, leading to a controversial early stoppage by the referee. This fight immediately became a massive talking point, a testament to Askren's incredible toughness and controversial wins. It’s definitely a top-tier Ben Askren fight highlight for its sheer chaos and Askren's resilience. The next bout, however, was perhaps the most iconic moment of his career, albeit not for a positive reason. His fight against Jorge Masvidal at UFC 239 lasted a mere five seconds. Masvidal famously charged across the octagon and landed a flying knee that knocked Askren out cold, producing the fastest knockout in UFC history. This shocking moment became an instant, indelible Ben Askren highlight, frequently replayed and discussed. It was a brutal end to his undefeated run and a moment that truly changed the trajectory of his career. Despite the devastating loss, Askren showed incredible sportsmanship and humor in its aftermath, which only endeared him to more fans. His final fight in the UFC, against grappling wizard Demian Maia, was a highly anticipated contest between two of the best pure grapplers in the welterweight division. This was a true chess match on the ground, a treat for grappling enthusiasts. While Askren ultimately lost by submission, the fight itself was a demonstration of high-level grappling exchanges, adding another unique entry to his fight highlights. Even in defeat, he was engaging in high-level, skill-based battles that captivated audiences. These three MMA fights in the UFC, despite the mixed results, solidified Askren's status as a must-watch fighter who always delivered drama and memorable moments, making his brief UFC tenure an essential chapter in the book of Ben Askren fight highlights.

The Lawler Showdown: A Controversial Victory

Alright, let's zoom in on that wild ride against Robbie Lawler, guys. This fight, more than almost any other, screams Ben Askren fight highlights for its sheer unpredictability and controversy. When Askren stepped into the octagon for his UFC debut against "Ruthless" Robbie Lawler, a man known for his incredible knockout power and granite chin, the world was watching. Nobody expected what happened next. Literally moments into the fight, Lawler picked Askren up and slammed him on his head. It looked brutal, like something out of a movie. Lawler then followed up with a barrage of punches, and for a few terrifying seconds, it seemed like Askren's undefeated streak, and perhaps his entire UFC career, was going to end in a blink of an eye. Askren was clearly rocked, but in true "Funky" fashion, he survived. He absorbed the punishment, held on, and somehow found his way back into the fight, working for a submission. He eventually locked in a bulldog choke, a submission many thought was more of a neck crank. As Lawler appeared to go limp, the referee, Herb Dean, stepped in and stopped the fight. The problem? Lawler immediately popped up, protesting the stoppage, claiming he wasn't out. This created an absolute firestorm of debate. Was it an early stoppage? Was Lawler faking it? Did Askren truly submit him? No matter where you stood on the controversy, one thing was undeniable: this fight was an instant classic, a chaotic, heart-stopping debut that showcased Askren's incredible resilience and never-say-die attitude. It instantly became one of the most talked-about Ben Askren fight highlights, a moment that perfectly encapsulated his unique ability to survive the impossible and still come out on top, albeit in a highly contentious manner. It's a fight that still gets discussed today, cementing its place in MMA lore and as a critical piece of Askren's storied career.

Masvidal's Flying Knee: A Moment Etched in History

Okay, guys, if there's one single Ben Askren fight highlight that everybody, and I mean everybody, remembers, it's the Jorge Masvidal flying knee. This moment is etched into MMA history, a definitive "you had to see it to believe it" kind of event. Following the controversial Lawler fight, Askren was matched up against Jorge Masvidal, a dangerous striker who was on a career resurgence. The trash talk leading up to this fight was absolutely legendary, with Askren's usual witty jabs clashing with Masvidal's cold, calculated intensity. The animosity was palpable. Then, the bell rang. What happened next unfolded in just five seconds. As Askren shot for his characteristic double-leg takedown, Masvidal launched himself into the air and connected with a perfectly timed, absolutely devastating flying knee. Askren was knocked out cold before he even hit the canvas, and Masvidal followed up with two unnecessary, but iconic, hammerfists. It was over in an instant, the fastest knockout in UFC history, and it sent shockwaves through the MMA world. This wasn't just a loss; it was a moment. It was brutal, shocking, and utterly unforgettable. While it was a crushing defeat for Askren and ended his perfect record in the most dramatic way possible, it paradoxically became one of his most famous MMA fight highlights. Everyone remembers where they were when they saw "the knee." It's a clip that's been replayed millions of times, a staple in highlight reels of both Masvidal's ascendancy and Askren's career. Despite the devastating nature of the knockout, Askren handled it with incredible class and humor in the aftermath, which only added to his legend. This fight, or rather, the moment of the flying knee, undeniably stands as a monumental, if painful, entry into the collection of Ben Askren fight highlights.

Grappling Masterclass vs. Demian Maia

For the true grappling aficionados among you, the final UFC fight of Ben Askren's career against Demian Maia was a beautiful, technical masterpiece, and a definite Ben Askren fight highlight for its sheer display of high-level ground work. After the devastating flying knee knockout, Askren needed a bounce-back fight, and who better to test his grappling than Demian Maia, widely regarded as one of the best submission artists in UFC history? This wasn't a fight for the casual fan looking for a quick knockout; this was a cerebral chess match, a duel between two masters of the mat. From the moment the fight hit the ground, it was a clinic in positional control, escapes, reversals, and submission attempts. Both fighters showcased incredible defensive grappling and offensive prowess, constantly battling for dominant positions. Askren, with his relentless wrestling, was trying to impose his top control, while Maia, with his sublime Jiu-Jitsu, was constantly threatening with submissions from his back or looking for sweeps. Every scramble, every transition, was a lesson in grappling strategy. While Askren ultimately lost this bout via a rear-naked choke in the third round, the fight itself was a fantastic demonstration of his skill set against an equally elite grappler. It showed that even against the best, Askren was still a force to be reckoned with on the ground. For those who appreciate the intricacies of jiu-jitsu and wrestling, this fight was a treat, a pure grappling highlight reel in itself. It proved that Askren could hang with the absolute best on the ground, even if the final outcome didn't go his way. It’s an essential watch for anyone studying Ben Askren fight highlights for its technical brilliance and the pure, unadulterated grappling spectacle it offered.

Beyond the Octagon: Askren's Impact and Legacy

So, guys, beyond the wins, the losses, and the incredible Ben Askren fight highlights, what truly defines "Funky" Ben Askren's impact and legacy in MMA? It's much more than just his impressive fight record or his unique style. Ben Askren carved out a special place in the hearts of fans because of his unapologetic personality, his unwavering confidence, and his ability to entertain both inside and outside the cage. His trash talk was legendary – witty, often self-deprecating, and always designed to get under his opponent's skin. This wasn't just bluster; it was a carefully crafted part of his persona that made every one of his MMA fights feel like a bigger event. He brought charisma and a truly individual voice to a sport often filled with similar narratives. Askren was never afraid to speak his mind, and his honesty, sometimes brutally so, resonated with many. He showed that you don't have to fit a certain mold to be successful or beloved in combat sports. His legacy is also deeply tied to his pioneering wrestling-heavy style. In an era where striking often dominates highlight reels, Askren proved that elite wrestling and suffocating top control could be just as, if not more, effective. He inspired a new generation of fighters to embrace their grappling backgrounds and showed that dominant wrestling is a legitimate path to championship glory. He proved that you don't need to throw spinning kicks to be a legitimate threat; sometimes, just taking someone down and holding them there is the most exciting thing you can do for those who appreciate the technical aspects. His post-fighting career further exemplifies his lasting impact. Askren has transitioned into a successful entrepreneur, coach, and analyst, continuing to share his insights and unique perspective on the sport. He remains a prominent voice in the MMA community, always offering intelligent breakdowns and unafraid to challenge conventional wisdom. Even his brief foray into boxing against Jake Paul, while not a Ben Askren fight highlight in the traditional MMA sense, further cemented his status as a personality willing to take on new challenges and embrace the spectacle of combat sports. Ultimately, Ben Askren's legacy is one of a true original: a dominant wrestler who dared to be different, challenged the norms, and delivered a career full of truly unforgettable moments. His fight highlights aren't just about the techniques; they're about the indelible mark he left on the sport, proving that authenticity and an elite skill set can take you to the very top, making him a true legend whose "Funky" approach will be discussed and celebrated for years to come.

The Unforgettable Legacy of "Funky" Ben Askren

Wrapping this up, guys, when we talk about Ben Askren fight highlights, we're not just looking back at a collection of great moments; we're reminiscing about a truly unique journey in mixed martial arts. From his incredible wrestling pedigree that made him a force to be reckoned with, to his dominant reigns in Bellator and ONE Championship, and his ultimately short but wildly eventful stint in the UFC, Askren left an indelible mark on the sport. He was a champion who defied expectations, a grappler who captivated audiences, and a personality who was never afraid to be himself. His style might not have always been about flashy knockouts, but it was about dominance, control, and the sheer will to win. The controversy, the resilience against Robbie Lawler, the shocking flying knee from Masvidal, and the grappling clinic against Demian Maia – every single one of these MMA fights contributed to the rich tapestry of his career. Ben Askren proved that there are many ways to be an exciting and effective fighter, and his "Funky" approach opened doors for future generations of grappling specialists. He challenged the perception of what makes a fighter entertaining, emphasizing the strategic depth and physical chess match of high-level grappling. So, whether you loved him, loved to hate him, or simply admired his unparalleled skills, there's no denying that "Funky" Ben Askren delivered a career full of unforgettable fight highlights. He's a true original, a champion, and a legend whose impact on the sport will be felt for years to come. Thanks for reliving these epic moments with me!