Ben Askren to wrestle in comeback match one year after near‑fatal incident

Former UFC fighter Ben Askren is slated to complete a remarkable recovery by competing in a wrestling match on Saturday, a year after a near‑fatal incident. The bout, part of a local promotion in his hometown, marks Askren’s first competitive appearance since the accident that left him hospitalized and in intensive rehabilitation.

Askren, who was injured in a severe traffic collision in 2023, has undergone extensive physical therapy and conditioning to return to the mat. The Saturday match pits him against a seasoned collegiate wrestler in a non‑title event, with the bout scheduled for 2:00 p.m. at the City Hall Sports Arena. Officials say the event will showcase Askren’s regained strength and serve as a testament to his resilience.

The match is expected to draw attention from both the MMA and wrestling communities, offering a rare glimpse of Askren’s athleticism after a year of recovery. While the fight is not a professional title contest, it represents a significant milestone in his rehabilitation journey and a potential springboard for future competitive endeavors.