Former UFC welterweight contender Ben Askren has responded to Paige VanZant’s recent comments questioning his status as a legitimate athlete in the combat sports world.
VanZant is preparing for her upcoming match against OnlyFans model Elle Brooke for the Misfits Boxing women’s middleweight title on May 25th. She will be returning to combat sports after her loss to Rachael Ostovich at Bare Knuckle FC 19.
In a series of media appearances leading up to her return, VanZant has taken shots at Dillon Danis and Ben Askren, suggesting they lack the credentials to be considered true fighters.
During an interview preceding her bout with Misfits Boxing, VanZant dismissed Askren’s abilities. She stated: “Not a fighter, he’s a wrestler.”
VanZant’s remarks prompted Askren to answer without much delay.
He wrote on Twitter: “It really wasn’t worth my response. But I appreciate you reminding her that my career was significantly better than hers. I have a record that she can only dream.”
During his time in the UFC, Askren faced Jorge Masvidal and Demian Maia. He ended up losing to them. Askren had a record of 1-2 in the UFC. He also earned a controversial victory over UFC Hall of Famer Robbie Lawler at UFC 235.
Before joining the promotion, Askren was a dominant force in welterweight divisions and held titles in ONE and Bellator. His first 20 professional bouts were all wins, including Bellator championship defenses against Andrey Koreshkov and Douglas Lima.
VanZant is a former UFC flyweight contender. She secured victories against Felice Herrig and Bec Rawlings during her UFC tenure and showed potential early on. However, she struggled against more experienced flyweights and was unable to capture a title.
After losing to Jake Paul in his only boxing match in 2021, Askren still has to deal with hate from the internet. Since then, he has abstained from combat sports competition and is determined to make his retirement permanent.
While he never claimed a UFC title, Askren’s accomplishments in MMA speak for themselves.