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Ben Askren Returns Post-Lung Transplant for Final Fight

7/15/2026

24 3 Full Breakdown

Summary

Askren Returns

Former Olympian Ben Askren will face Belal Muhammad in the RAF 11 co-main event in Milwaukee on Saturday, his final match.
Askren received a double-lung transplant in June 2025, completed rehabilitation, and was cleared by doctors two weeks ago.
He notes weekly bike gains, three-month aerobic improvement, and will retire after the Milwaukee show on his birthday.
Askren hopes his recovery will inspire others with similar health challenges.

Summary

Sonnen Backs Muhammad

Chael Sonnen will serve as color commentator for the RAF 11 co-main event streaming on FOX Nation.
Sonnen, initially uncomfortable with Ben Askren’s comeback, now praises Belal Muhammad for accepting the risky matchup.
Muhammad returns for his second RAF appearance after a technical-fall loss at RAF 4, with Sonnen arguing his willingness deserves greater recognition.

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Askren Returns

Former Olympian Ben Askren will face Belal Muhammad in the RAF 11 co-main event in Milwaukee on Saturday, his final match.
Askren received a double-lung transplant in June 2025, completed rehabilitation, and was cleared by doctors two weeks ago.
He notes weekly bike gains, three-month aerobic improvement, and will retire after the Milwaukee show on his birthday.
Askren hopes his recovery will inspire others with similar health challenges.

1 / 2