In the often-unpredictable world of mixed martial arts, careers can be defined by moments. For Jorge Masvidal and Ben Askren, one such indelible moment occurred at UFC 239 in July 2019. Their highly anticipated clash, fueled by significant pre-fight animosity, concluded in a scant five seconds. Masvidal launched himself across the octagon with a flying knee that instantly knocked out the previously undefeated Askren, securing the fastest knockout in UFC history. The aftermath saw Masvidal add controversial ground strikes and a memorable, defiant celebration over his prone opponent. It was a brutal, decisive end to a heated rivalry, a moment that catapulted Masvidal into superstardom and fundamentally altered Askren`s trajectory in the sport.
Now, nearly five years removed from that explosive encounter and with both fighters having retired from active competition, the narrative takes an unexpected turn. News recently emerged regarding Ben Askren`s serious health struggles, specifically a battle with double pneumonia. As Askren provided updates to his followers via social media regarding his challenging recovery, one of his most impactful former opponents took notice.
Jorge Masvidal, the architect of Askren`s most famous defeat, has publicly extended well wishes to his former rival. Shifting from the animosity that defined their competitive relationship, Masvidal expressed genuine concern and support for Askren`s health. His message, shared on social media, conveyed a desire to set aside their past differences in light of Askren`s current fight outside the cage.
“What`s up, my brother?” Masvidal was quoted as saying, acknowledging their history but immediately pivoting to the present situation. “I know we were rivals in the ring. I just want to say, God bless you.” The message went further, expressing a wish for personal connection: “And when I get back in America, if I can come shake your hand, brother, and just say a prayer with you, it will be amazing, man.”
This gesture is notable precisely because of the intensity of their past conflict. The rivalry wasn`t merely competitive; it appeared deeply personal, culminating in that stunning, violent finish. Yet, Masvidal`s words reflect a recognition of a struggle that transcends the scores settled in the octagon. He voiced admiration for Askren`s resilience in the face of his current health crisis, referring to him as a “f*cking warrior.”
“I know you`re going to pull through this because you`re a f*cking warrior, brother,” Masvidal stated, adding that Askren`s journey through this illness is “crazy inspirational.” He reiterated his hope for Askren`s recovery and the opportunity for a face-to-face meeting, presumably to offer support and, as he put it previously, “bury the hatchet” officially and permanently.
While their professional paths diverged after that pivotal fight, with Masvidal becoming a major pay-per-view draw and Askren eventually concluding his combat sports career, this moment highlights the complex, sometimes surprising, human element that underlies even the most intense sporting rivalries. The man responsible for one of the most iconic and brutal knockouts in recent memory is now publicly hoping for the well-being of the man on the receiving end. It`s a reminder that beyond the competition, the athletes are individuals facing their own battles, and sometimes, even the most bitter feuds can yield to empathy and respect in the face of life`s greater challenges.
