Corey Anderson credits Ben Askren for significantly shaping his life and career, including introducing him to MMA and his wife, and is deeply affected by Askren’s current health struggles following a double lung transplant.
When Corey Anderson first crossed paths with Ben Askren, he was just a college wrestler with a growing list of accolades. Little did he know, that meeting would change everything.
Askren, a two-time National Champion and 2008 Olympian, was impressed by Anderson’s competitive mindset. He invited Anderson to train with him and suggested a career in MMA. This advice proved pivotal, as Anderson eventually joined The Ultimate Fighter, launching his successful career and becoming the final 205-pound champion in Bellator history.
Currently, Askren is facing a severe health crisis, having undergone a double lung transplant due to pneumonia. His wife, Amy, has been providing updates, but for Anderson, seeing his mentor in this condition is deeply affecting.
“It hits my wife more,” Anderson shared with MMA Fighting. “I’m not usually emotional, but when Ben’s name comes up, the tears start. Every night, we pray for him. My wife comes out of the Zoom call with tears.”
The impact on Anderson’s wife, Jennifer, is profound because Askren has been a significant figure in their lives. Without Askren, Anderson and Jennifer might never have met.
“Not just my career, but my life wouldn’t be what it is without Ben,” Anderson explained. “I met my wife because of him. Everything I have as an adult—my family, my career—it’s all because of Ben.”
Anderson first met his wife when she was working at the MMA gym Askren invited him to. That chance meeting led to a lasting relationship.
Despite moving from Wisconsin to focus on MMA, Anderson has kept Askren as a constant mentor. Whenever he needs advice, Askren is the first person he contacts.
“Every time we go home, we visit Ben,” Anderson said. “If I have a fight issue, my wife tells me to message Ben. He’s my go-to for guidance.”
Askren, along with Eddie Alvarez, are the mentors Anderson trusts most. They’ve seen it all and guide him through the fight game.
With Askren hospitalized, Anderson admits it’s been tough, but he keeps him in his thoughts and prayers. Even as he prepares for his next fight, Askren’s recovery is never far from his mind.
More than anything, Anderson longs to hear Askren’s voice again. “Ben shaped my life—from my wife to MMA. He even helped with my hunting channel. I just want to call him, even if he doesn’t respond. We keep praying he’ll be okay.”