Team USA is preparing to honor one of wrestling’s most distinctive competitors in an unprecedented gesture at the 2025 World Championships in Zagreb, Croatia. ormer collegiate wrestling champion and UFC veteran Ben Askren will see his initials “BMA” displayed on the official U.S. World Team RUDIS singlets across all disciplines.
The tribute comes during a particularly meaningful period for the Askren family, following Ben’s remarkable recovery from a life-threatening medical crisis earlier this year. What began as a seemingly minor staph infection on his elbow quickly escalated into a dangerous situation when the infection spread to his bloodstream, causing severe pneumonia and extensive lung damage.
USA Wrestling’s Executive Director Rich Bender emphasized the significance of this recognition, describing Askren’s journey as truly inspiring. “It’s with true wrestling spirit that we place his initials on our 2025 Senior World Team singlets to express our support and recognition of Ben as a warrior in our sport,” Bender explained.
The honor spans all three wrestling disciplines – Greco-Roman, women’s freestyle, and men’s freestyle.
Amy Askren’s reaction to the announcement captured the emotional weight of the moment. Taking to Instagram, she described the experience as “surreal” while expressing gratitude for the overwhelming support they’ve received.
“After the events the last few days, I’m so aware that this could be in honor of his memory, but thank God it’s not,” she wrote. “It’s been incredible to witness his determination through it all. Proud of you, and so thankful for the community that prayed for you.”
The medical crisis that preceded this honor began innocuously when Ben returned from wrestling tournaments in May. Initially feeling well, he soon developed severe back pain that made rest impossible. Amy’s vigilant monitoring proved crucial when she noticed concerning changes in his breathing patterns, even recording them to document her observations.
Despite Ben’s initial resistance to seeking medical attention, Amy’s persistence proved life-saving. Ben later recalled the conversation that may have saved his life: “I’m not f**king going to the hospital,” he remembered telling her, before eventually agreeing after a thirty-minute discussion. His final memory before the medical emergency fully took hold was getting into an Uber for the hospital journey.
The severity of his condition became clear when Ben spent weeks in a coma and required placement on a transplant waiting list. The intervention of a donor ultimately provided the opportunity for his recovery, though the healing process has been lengthy and challenging.
Reflecting on his wife’s role during this ordeal, Ben became emotional when describing her unwavering dedication. “I don’t wanna get emotional, but if it wasn’t for my wife, I probably would’ve died,” he confessed, his voice trembling with gratitude.
Throughout the seventy-day hospital stay, Amy maintained a constant presence, visiting almost daily while simultaneously managing their children’s needs at home. “My wife was amazing,” Ben reflected, acknowledging the extraordinary balancing act she performed during their darkest period. “There’s a decent chance I could’ve died,” he added, tears forming as he considered the alternative outcome.
For Askren himself, the wrestling community’s response has been overwhelming in the best possible way. Having dedicated years to the sport that launched his athletic career, seeing that passion reciprocated has been deeply moving. “It felt good when the wrestling community gave back to me,” he shared.
