Former UFC welterweight and MMA champion Ben Askren has been admitted to the hospital due to a severe case of pneumonia. His wife, Amy Askren, shared the concerning news via social media on Saturday.

"You may have heard that my husband Ben is going through something," Amy Askren posted on Facebook. "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 peace."

The couple, who reside in Wisconsin with their three children, has requested privacy during this difficult time. Ben Askren, who has a notable career both in wrestling and mixed martial arts, retired from MMA in 2019. He boasts an impressive record of 19-2.

A two-time NCAA Division I champion in wrestling and a member of the 2008 U.S. Olympic team, Askren transitioned to MMA where he claimed welterweight titles in Bellator MMA and One Championship. His move to the UFC in 2019 was highly anticipated, and he secured a notable victory over former champion Robbie Lawler, ending his UFC run with a record of 1-2.