Dana White has spoken about his role in Ben Askren’s medical care, though he seemed reluctant to go into detail.
The relationship between them was not exactly a bed of roses. However, that didn’t matter when news of Askren’s critical condition emerged, as White showed kindness by supporting his HelpHopeLive page.
Much of the recent discussion online has centred around unconfirmed reports that Jake Paul donated $500,000 towards Askren’s double lung transplant. The Askren family hasn’t confirmed any specific figures, including the total cost or whether White contributed financially.
Dana White speaks out about his donation to Ben Askren
After UFC Nashville, Dana White was asked whether he had contributed financially to Ben Askren’s family during the former fighter’s battle with pneumonia, which led to a double lung transplant. Askren’s insurance claim was denied, forcing him to cover the costs himself.
Double lung transplants are among the most costly procedures in US healthcare. A 2025 report from Milliman, cited by HelpHopeLive, estimated that without insurance, expenses can exceed $2.3 million.
Jake Paul suggested at his post-fight press conference after beating Julio Cesar Chavez Jr that White hadn’t been involved. But apart from what is listed on HelpHopeLive, there isn’t any way to verify who has donated.
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White seemed uneasy with the question and didn’t want to frame himself as a hero for helping out Askren. He has a reputation for quietly supporting those in need within the MMA community and recently made an unpublicised donation to the family of a late PFL staff member.
“I usually don’t talk about that stuff but yes I did,” White replied when asked point blank if he had financially supported Askren. “I did.
“I mean, we reached out to his wife as soon as we heard and told her ‘if there’s anything you need’. And yes, I did, yes. I just don’t like talking about that S***, that’s between us, but yes.”
What Ben Askren’s latest video showed
When Ben Askren posted his first video message from his hospital bed earlier this week, it was clear to fans just how much the past six weeks had taken a toll on him. He’d dropped around 50 pounds and looked worn down, though he still took time to thank fans and got emotional over the support from friends.
But by Saturday, he shared a second video that had a very different feel.. Looking healthier after a haircut and shave, Askren said he was close to leaving the hospital and had become less reliant on medical tubes.
“I’m going to plead guilty, I felt guilty for myself one time,” he said. “And that doesn’t do anyone any good. I thought ‘man, I never smoked one cigarette, never smoked any weed, never did anything. Why did my lungs get stolen from me? Why isn’t this happening to someone who smokes habitually?’
“Then I realised, it happened. So I can be bitter and angry, I could whine and cry but that’s not going to help anybody. I am where I am now and I’m going to move forward the best that I can.”
“So I hope you guys are enjoying the updates,” he continued. “I will not feel sorry for myself; I’m going to be out of here very soon so hope you have a great day.”
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