Jake Paul has expressed a heartfelt concern for Ben Askren following news of the MMA fighter’s serious health issues. Once bitter rivals in the boxing ring, their dynamic has shifted dramatically in light of Askren’s ongoing battle with pneumonia stemming from a staph infection, which has resulted in his hospitalization and need for a lung transplant.
In a recent statement to the media during an open workout for his upcoming fight with Julio Cesar Chavez Jr., Paul conveyed his prayers and support for Askren and his family, acknowledging the gravity of their situation. “I just hope that he can recover because there’s so much more to life besides fighting and careers,” Paul said. He emphasized his readiness to provide assistance if needed, demonstrating a level of compassion and respect despite their past rivalry.
The co-founder of Most Valuable Promotions, Nakisa Bidarian, recounted that Paul reached out to him two weeks ago after learning about Askren’s condition. He expressed a desire to reach out to Askren’s family but opted to wait for the right moment, showcasing his sensitivity during this challenging time.
In a more promising update, Askren’s wife, Amy, shared on social media that her husband has shown signs of improvement, recently opening his eyes and attempting to communicate. He has now been placed on the transplant list, a critical step in his recovery journey. Amy expressed gratitude for the support from their community, emphasizing the importance of prayers and well wishes as they navigate this difficult period.
This story not only highlights the unexpected compassion between former foes in combat sports but also underscores the resilience of the human spirit in facing health challenges. As Askren continues on his path to recovery, the outpouring of support from fans and fighters alike serves as a testament to the community’s solidarity during tough times.