Ben Askren Returns to RAF for an Emotional Wrestling Farewell

Ben Askren has always been one of the most accomplished wrestlers to transition into mixed martial arts. The former Bellator and ONE Championship titleholder, as well as a former UFC welterweight contender, made headlines again after stepping onto the mat at Real American Freestyle (RAF) 11 for a special wrestling match against former UFC welterweight champion Belal Muhammad.

The event was much more than a competitive contest. It celebrated Askren’s remarkable comeback after recovering from a life-threatening illness and served as his farewell to competitive wrestling.

Ben Askren’s Wrestling Background

Before becoming an MMA star, Askren built one of the greatest amateur wrestling careers in American history.

His achievements include:

• Two-time NCAA Division I National Champion at Missouri
• Two-time Dan Hodge Trophy winner
• Member of the 2008 U.S. Olympic wrestling team
• Multiple international wrestling medals

His unique “Funky” wrestling style became famous for its creativity, scrambling ability, and exceptional balance.

Ben Askren’s UFC Journey

After dominating Bellator and ONE Championship, Askren finally signed with the UFC in 2019.

His UFC career included fights against:

• Robbie Lawler
• Jorge Masvidal
• Demian Maia

Although his UFC run was brief, Askren remained one of the sport’s most recognizable personalities thanks to his wrestling pedigree, outspoken personality, and technical expertise.

Ben Askren vs Belal Muhammad at RAF

The headline attraction at RAF 11 featured Ben Askren taking on Belal Muhammad in a freestyle wrestling contest.

The match carried emotional significance because Askren had recently recovered from severe pneumonia that ultimately required a lung transplant. His return to competition represented an incredible personal victory.

Match Summary

Askren started strongly by controlling much of the early action.

He built an early lead before Muhammad mounted an impressive comeback during the final period.

Final Score

• Belal Muhammad: 6
• Ben Askren: 3

Muhammad’s conditioning proved decisive late in the contest as he secured the victory.

Why the RAF Match Was So Special

The result was secondary to the inspiring story behind Askren’s return.

Only months earlier, many doubted he would ever compete again after battling serious health complications. His appearance alone became one of the most emotional moments in recent wrestling history.

Following the match, Askren left his wrestling shoes on the mat—a traditional symbol of retirement—confirming that this would be his final competitive wrestling appearance.

Belal Muhammad Shows Respect

Despite defeating Askren, Belal Muhammad made sure the evening ended with respect.

After the match, Muhammad praised Askren’s courage, encouraged the crowd to give him a standing ovation, and helped celebrate his birthday with fans.

The sportsmanship highlighted the friendship and mutual respect shared between the two former UFC competitors.

Ben Askren’s MMA Record

Throughout his professional MMA career, Askren competed across several major organizations.

Career Highlights

• Former Bellator Welterweight Champion
• Former ONE Welterweight Champion
• UFC veteran
• Olympian
• NCAA wrestling legend

His wrestling-first approach helped influence a generation of mixed martial artists.

Why Ben Askren Remains Influential

Few athletes have successfully bridged amateur wrestling and professional MMA as effectively as Ben Askren.

His accomplishments include:

• Elite collegiate wrestling success
• International competition
• World championships in MMA
• Coaching and mentoring younger wrestlers
• Popular analyst and podcast personality

Even after retirement, his technical wrestling knowledge continues to influence fighters around the world.

What’s Next for Ben Askren?

Askren has stated that RAF 11 was intended as a one-time return rather than the start of another competitive run.

With his wrestling career officially concluded, he is expected to continue contributing to the sport through coaching, commentary, and media appearances while enjoying retirement after an extraordinary athletic journey.

Conclusion

Ben Askren’s appearance at RAF 11 was about far more than winning or losing. His comeback following a life-threatening illness inspired wrestling and MMA fans alike. Although Belal Muhammad earned a 6-3 victory, the night belonged to Askren, whose farewell reminded everyone why he remains one of the most respected figures in combat sports. His legacy as an Olympic wrestler, world champion, and UFC veteran will continue to inspire future generations.

FAQs

Who won the Ben Askren vs Belal Muhammad RAF match?

Belal Muhammad defeated Ben Askren by a score of 6-3 in the freestyle wrestling match at RAF 11.

Why did Ben Askren return to wrestling?

Askren returned for a special farewell match after recovering from serious health issues, including a lung transplant.

Did Ben Askren retire after RAF?

Yes. Askren symbolically retired by leaving his wrestling shoes on the mat following the match.

Was Ben Askren a UFC champion?

No. Askren competed in the UFC but won world championships in Bellator and ONE Championship before joining the promotion.

What is Ben Askren best known for?

He is best known for his elite collegiate wrestling career, Olympic appearance, world championships in MMA, and his distinctive “Funky” wrestling style.