"Sad news, keep fighting" - MMA world reacts as Ben Askren is left unresponsive amid hospitalization due to severe pneumonia

Ben Askren is currently hospitalized, battling pneumonia and other serious health issues. News of his condition has prompted an outpour of support from the MMA world.

Combat sports reporter Ariel Helwani took to X to reveal the updates, writing:

"Wanted to send positive thoughts to Ben Askren, who is currently hospitalized battling serious health issues. Askren developed pneumonia very recently, according to his wife, in addition to other serious illnesses. He’s battling right now. Hang in there, @Benaskren. You got this."

Check out Ariel Helwani's X post below:

Askren's wife Amy confirmed the news, writing:

"You may have heard that my husband Ben is going through something. He developed severe pneumonia which came on very suddenly. He's currently in the hospital and unable to respond to anything at this time. We welcome all prayers for healing and for peace. We are trying to keep life as normal as possible for our children currently and doing our best to support them thoughtfully so please refrain from discussing it with them for now."

Check out Amy Askren's X post below:

Former UFC two-division champion Henry Cejudo sent a message to Askren on X, writing:

"Pray for Ben Askren."

Several fans also took to X to send out their prayers for Askren, writing:

"Sending prayers for Ben, his family, and the incredible medical team caring for him."

"Pneumonia is no joke our manager at Newcastle United the legend Eddie Howe. Luckily, he pulled through. Thoughts and prayers with Ben."

"Thoughts and prayers with @Benaskren & his family. Confident he’ll beat this."

"Sad news, keep fighting Ben!"

Check out some of the reactions below:

Fans react to the news that Ben Askren is in critical condition. [Screenshots courtesy: @arielhelwani on X]

Askren carved a unique path, compiling a professional record of 19 wins, two losses, and one no-contest across 22 fights. Six of those victories came by knockout, another six by submission, and seven by decision.