The ex-MMA star, 40, was hospitalised after contracting pneumonia as a result of a staph infection and unresponsive last week - though alive - despite claims circulating online that he had died.

Askren, 40, suffered a staph infection and contracted pneumonia before being rushed to hospital to be put on a ventilator in critical condition and receive a life-saving double lung transplant.

Former mixed martial arts star Ben Askren was in the hospital battling a severe illness, his wife said in a post on Facebook over the weekend.

Former MMA star Ben Askren, 40, is fighting for his life in a Wisconsin hospital.

Prominent MMA and wrestling figure Ben Askren is in the hospital with severe pneumonia, his wife disclosed via social media.

Former UFC fighter Ben Askren has received a double lung transplant in an encouraging update following his initial hospitalization more than three weeks ago.

Former MMA champion Ben Askren was hospitalized after developing severe pneumonia, his wife posted on social media on Saturday.

Former mixed martial arts fighter Ben Askren received a double lung transplant, his wife said on Monday, June 30, after being hospitalized with 'severe pneumonia' weeks earlier.

Former MMA star Ben Askren received a double lung transplant after severe pneumonia, with wife Amy expressing gratitude to the donor's family as he begins recovery from life support.

Former UFC fighter Ben Askren is recovering from a double lung transplant after weeks awaiting a donor, his wife said on Monday.

Prominent MMA and wrestling figure Ben Askren is in the hospital with severe pneumonia, his wife disclosed via social media on Saturday. Amy Askren shared a post on her Facebook page that provided ...

Ben Askren is now showing signs of responsiveness in hospital but is still in a serious condition and fighting for his life in hospital. The ex-MMA star, 40, was hospitalised after contracting ...