The careers of Jorge Masvidal and Ben Askren are forever linked.
2019 was an important year for both. Askren joined the UFC roster in the infamous trade with One Championship, submitting Robbie Lawler to assert himself into the title mix. Masvidal, conversely, returned from a two-year layoff to smoke Darren Till in London (watch it), one of the best wins of his long career. The two were quickly booked for UFC 239, and there was bad blood leading up to the contest.
The rest is history. Masvidal landed an immediate flying knee to end Askren’s unbeaten run in just five seconds, the quickest KO in UFC history still to this day. He also followed the knee with some “super necessary” follow up punches on an unconscious Askren. Regardless, the win rocketed him into stardom, whereas Askren fought just once more inside the Octagon before retiring from MMA.
As recently as 2023, the two were jawing at one another.
It’s a long history of feuding, which is why it’s nice to see “Gamebred” set that all aside given Askren’s recent health struggles. “Funky” very nearly died in the last month and was forced to undergo a lung transplant that will mean a lengthy recovery and significant lifestyle change. In a recent Instagram post, Masvidal sent some love to his former opponent and wished him the best.
“This goes out to the one and only Ben Askren,” Masvidal began. “What’s up my brother? I know we were rivals in the ring, but I just want to say God bless you. When I get back to America, if I could come shake your hand brother and just share a prayer with you, it’ll be amazing man. I know you’re gonna pull through this, cause you’re a f—king warrior. God bless, your story is crazy inspirational what you’re going through right now. God bless, I’m hoping to get back and shake your hand. I hope all is well.”
Unlike the long retired Askren, Masvidal remains something of an active fighter. He most recently lost a controversial majority decision in a boxing match opposite Nate Diaz in March 2024 but has said he’s open to a UFC return as well.
