Ben Askren Loses RAF 11 Wrestling Match to Belal Muhammad
Ben Askren returned to wrestling at RAF 11 in Milwaukee on July 18, 2026, facing former UFC welterweight champion Belal Muhammad. Askren described the appearance as a one-time return. Result: Muhammad won the three-round match 6–3 after Askren led 3–0 entering the final period.
Belal Muhammad Beats Ben Askren at RAF 11
Askren wrestled former UFC welterweight champion Belal Muhammad in the RAF 11 co-main event. Muhammad rallied in the third period to win 6–3. Askren said afterward that it was his final time on the mat.
A Year of Hell: Askren’s Health Crisis and Recovery
Askren opened up about the brutal health battle he endured last year.
He was hospitalized on May 28, 2025, and ultimately required a transplant, which he received on June 28, 2025. The ordeal forced him to confront his own mortality and reshaped his perspective on training, competition, and life itself.
Now, Askren says he’s healthy, training consistently, and using his story to inspire anyone facing adversity. His message is simple: if he can fight his way back, others can too.
RAF’s Rise — and Askren’s Mission to Make Wrestling Cool Again
Askren lit up when discussing the explosive growth of Real American Freestyle (RAF).
He admitted the promotion has already surpassed his expectations in its first year and spoke proudly about his role in helping steer the organization forward.
His long-term mission?
Make wrestling cool again—especially for the next generation.
Askren believes RAF is the platform capable of doing exactly that.
Askren’s Fight Predictions and Analysis
Askren didn’t shy away from giving his take on upcoming RAF storylines:
- Arman Tsarukyan vs. Colby Covington: Askren predicts Tsarukyan edges it out by a single point.
- Gable Steveson in the UFC: Askren believes Steveson could find success quickly if he commits to the transition.
Burying the Hatchet: Askren and Masvidal Reconcile
In one of the most surprising reveals, Askren confirmed that he and Jorge Masvidal—yes, that Jorge Masvidal—have officially squashed their long-standing beef.
The two recently met while working on a documentary project, and Askren described the interaction as positive and productive.
Ariel and Ben also revisited their own infamous feud, laughing through the memories and acknowledging how far they’ve come since those heated days.
A One-Time Return With Purpose
Askren’s comeback isn’t about chasing glory or rewriting history.
It’s about honoring the sport, celebrating resilience, and giving fans a moment they never expected to see again.
In Milwaukee on July 18, Askren completed the one-time return he had described.
Sources
- Interview footage featuring Ben Askren and Ariel Helwani
- RAF organizational announcements
- Public statements from Ben Askren regarding his health and return
Article Tags
Ben Askren, Belal Muhammad, RAF 11, Real American Freestyle, Wrestling, MMA, Ariel Helwani, Gable Steveson, Arman Tsarukyan, Colby Covington, Jorge Masvidal, Combat Sports, Milwaukee Events
