Belal Muhammad pays tribute to Ben Askren after emotional final match

Belal Muhammad delivered an emotional tribute to Ben Askren after their match at RAF 11 on July 18, 2026. The UFC welterweight champion praised Askren's incredible journey back to competition following a life-saving double lung transplant.

What happened at RAF 11?

Ben Askren made his final appearance in the cage at RAF 11, marking the end of a remarkable comeback story. After suffering severe pneumonia that required a double lung transplant just over a year ago, Askren defied the odds to return to competition. Though he lost on points to Belal Muhammad in Milwaukee, his resilience earned widespread admiration.

Why Belal Muhammad was moved by Askren's story

During his post-match speech, Muhammad became emotional as he reflected on Askren's impact. 'Honestly, it's surreal, man,' he said. 'This guy is a legend. He came back from the dead.' Muhammad revealed that Askren's determination inspired him during tough times, helping him push through his own struggles.

What Askren said after his final match

Askren officially announced his retirement following the bout, sharing his gratitude for the opportunity to compete again. 'I worked as hard as sh*t in the last year,' he admitted. 'There were times I couldn’t feed myself, I couldn’t stand up. But every day, I thanked God for the chance to do it just one more time.' His words resonated deeply with fans and fellow fighters alike.

Askren's journey from near-death to the cage has been hailed as one of the most inspiring stories in combat sports history. Belal Muhammad's tribute underscored the profound impact Askren has had on the MMA community, proving that perseverance can overcome even the most daunting challenges.