Ben Askren's Last Fight: Everything You Need To Know

What's up, fight fans! Today, we're diving deep into the career of a true wrestling legend turned MMA standout, Ben Askren. Many of you are probably wondering, "When did Ben Askren last fight?" It's a question that comes up a lot, especially with his unique path through combat sports. Askren, known for his dominant wrestling background and somewhat unconventional striking, has had a career that captivated a lot of us. He wasn't just another fighter; he was a statement. His undefeated streak in ONE Championship and his eventual move to the UFC were massive talking points. But like all fighters, his time in the active competition has wound down, leaving many fans curious about his final professional bout.

The Road to His Final Bout

Before we get to the actual last fight, it's crucial to understand the context. Ben Askren's journey in professional MMA was marked by incredible success and a fair bit of controversy. He absolutely dominated the welterweight division in ONE Championship, often showcasing a style that was both effective and, at times, frustrating for opponents and even some fans. His signature style involved relentless takedowns, suffocating ground control, and a surprising ability to land effective strikes when needed, despite not being a flashy striker. He retired from ONE Championship with an undefeated record and the welterweight title, a testament to his skill and dedication. This led to a highly anticipated move to the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), where many believed he would face even tougher competition and potentially cement his legacy even further. The UFC debut itself was a huge event, drawing massive attention. However, the transition to the biggest stage in MMA wasn't without its challenges, and the narrative of his career began to shift.

The Final Chapter in Professional MMA

So, when did Ben Askren last fight professionally in MMA? His final professional MMA bout took place on October 26, 2019. This fight was part of UFC Fight Night 162, held in Moscow, Russia. His opponent was the formidable Demian Maia. This was a significant matchup, pitting Askren's grappling prowess against Maia's own legendary jiu-jitsu skills. The fight itself was a stark reminder of the challenges Askren faced in the latter part of his MMA career. Despite his wrestling credentials, he struggled to implement his game plan against Maia. The fight went into the second round, and unfortunately for Askren and his fans, he was submitted via rear-naked choke by Demian Maia at 3:09 of the second round. This loss marked the end of his professional MMA career, leaving him with a final record of 19 wins, 2 losses, and 1 no-contest. It was a tough way to end a career that had so many highs, but it's a reality many fighters face in this brutal sport. The defeat clearly took a toll, and he announced his retirement from professional MMA shortly after this fight. It was a moment many in the MMA community were reflecting on, as Askren's unique style and personality had carved out a special place in the sport's history. The MMA world knew it was seeing the end of an era for the "Funky" Ben Askren.

Beyond the Professional Cage: The Boxing Match

Now, while his last professional MMA fight was in 2019, it's important to note that Askren didn't completely hang up his gloves. Many fans might confuse his last MMA bout with his most recent combat sports appearance. In April 2021, Ben Askren stepped into the boxing ring for a highly publicized exhibition bout against fellow former MMA star Jake Paul. This fight, which was part of the "Triller Fight Club" event, garnered immense attention, primarily due to the crossover appeal and the narrative surrounding a retired MMA fighter taking on a popular YouTuber-turned-boxer. The boxing match itself saw Askren struggle to adapt to the different discipline. While he had a wrestling background that emphasized control and technique, boxing is a completely different beast. In the first round, Jake Paul landed a powerful right hand that sent Askren to the canvas. Although Askren managed to beat the count, he was clearly dazed, and the fight was stopped by the referee shortly thereafter. This TKO loss, occurring in February 2021, was his last combat sports appearance to date. It's crucial to distinguish this from his professional MMA career, which concluded with the Demian Maia fight. The boxing match, while a significant event in popular culture, represented a different chapter and a different sport altogether for Askren. It highlighted the stark differences in skill sets required for MMA and professional boxing, and for many, it was a surprising but not entirely unexpected outcome given the circumstances and Jake Paul's growing boxing experience at the time.

What's Next for Ben Askren?

Following his retirement from professional MMA and his subsequent boxing appearance, Ben Askren has largely stepped away from active competition. He has remained a prominent figure in the combat sports world, often appearing as a commentator, analyst, or guest on various shows and podcasts. His insights, stemming from his extensive experience as a world-class wrestler and a high-level MMA fighter, are highly valued. He's also been involved in coaching and promoting wrestling, staying true to his roots. While the fight game is always unpredictable, there haven't been any serious indications or rumors about him returning to professional MMA or boxing. It seems like Ben Askren has found a comfortable and fulfilling role outside the intense pressure of active competition. He's often seen enjoying his family life and pursuing other business ventures. His transition seems to be a smooth one, much like his wrestling style was smooth on the mat, but this time it's about transitioning to a new phase of life. The "Funky" one has certainly left his mark on MMA, and now he's focusing on whatever comes next, leaving fans with great memories of his unique fighting style and personality. We'll always remember him for his incredible wrestling pedigree and his fearless approach to the sport.

Conclusion: A Legacy Defined

So, to recap for everyone asking, when did Ben Askren last fight professionally in MMA? It was against Demian Maia on October 26, 2019. This fight marked the official end of his professional mixed martial arts career. While he did participate in a boxing match against Jake Paul in February 2021, that was a separate event in a different sport and not part of his professional MMA record. Ben Askren's legacy is that of a dominant wrestler who transitioned successfully into MMA, achieving significant success and challenging himself on the world stage. He may not have achieved the UFC title, but his impact on the sports of wrestling and MMA is undeniable. His journey, from Olympic hopeful to ONE Champion to UFC contender, and finally to retirement, is a compelling story in the world of combat sports. We wish him all the best in his future endeavors, whatever they may be! He’s a true legend in our eyes.