Ben Askren is one of the most accomplished and recognizable figures in the sport of wrestling. Hailing from Wisconsin, Ben competed scholastically for Arrowhead Union High School where he won two state titles and a Junior National title. Askren competed collegiately for the University of Missouri, where he completed one of the most impressive careers in NCAA history. Askren was a 2x undefeated NCAA Champion, 4x NCAA Finalist, 2x Hodge Trophy Winner (awarded to the top collegiate wrestler) and amassed 153 wins, 93 of which came by fall, which ranked 4th most in NCAA history.
In 2008 Askren won the 74kg freestyle weight class at the United States Olympic Trials and was the US Olympic representative in Beijing, China.Â
Following his competitive wrestling career Askren embarked on a highly successful MMA career. Winning World Titles in Bellator and One FC, Ben completed his career with the UFC and retired with a professional record of 19-2-1 in 2019.
Askren continues to give back and grow the sport of wrestling. In 2011 he Co-Founded the Askren Wrestling Academy (AWA) where he has developed some of the top scholastic and youth wrestlers in the country. Learn more about the Askren Wrestling Academy here.
