Ben Askren was honored by the UFC family over the weekend as he continues to fight a serious health battle.
The former multi-promotion champion has been hospitalized in Wisconsin with severe pneumonia caused by a staph infection, leaving the MMA community rallying around him and his family.
Askren’s wife, Amy, shared an update earlier in the week, asking fans and friends to keep the prayers coming during what she called the toughest stretch of their lives.
During the UFC Atlanta broadcast, the promotion paused to address Askren’s situation directly – a moment that caught the attention of Daniel Cormier, who was watching from home.
Daniel Cormier thanks the UFC for standing by Askren
Daniel Cormier wasn’t on commentary duty for UFC Atlanta, but he was tuned in when the UFC broadcast paused to send well-wishes to Askren and his family.
‘DC’ shared a video clip of his TV screen to social media, capturing the moment UFC commentator Brendan Fitzgerald addressed the situation on air:
“Ben Askren is currently in a serious battle in a Wisconsin hospital after developing severe pneumonia,” Fitzgerald said. “His wife Amy posted about Ben’s health earlier this week, asking everyone to continue sending prayers and support.”
“The MMA community has rallied around the Askren family, urging prayers for Amy and their three kids. We here at the UFC want to send all our support to Ben and his family as they fight through this difficult time.”
Fellow commentator Paul Felder also weighed in: “All our best wishes go out to his wife and kids. We’re just hoping he pulls through and makes a full recovery.”
Cormier added his own message: “Thank you @ufc. @benaskren we all love you, buddy. Amy, we’re praying for you guys every day.”
Ben Askren’s wife overwhelmed by support
Last week, Amy broke the silence on social media. She thanked the community for their support and asked people to keep praying for the former UFC fighter.
“Feeling so incredibly thankful for our friends and community,” wrote Askren’s wife in a Facebook post that was shared in an Instagram story. “It’s times like this that remind you how truly blessed you are.
“I feel God moving through the love and support we have received. I’m sorry if I haven’t had the chance to respond to you, but know I’ve seen your messages, and each one has meant so much to me.
“Please keep praying for Ben.”
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