Jake Paul expresses heartfelt sentiment towards previous adversary Ben Askren following his victory against Julio Cesar Chavez Jr.
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Jake Paul urges fans to donate to Ben Askren following his win over Julio Cesar Chavez Jr
Ben Askren, a previous UFC contender who was KO'd by Paul in 2021, is at present gripping with life-or-death condition due to severe pneumonia, necessitating a life-saving lung transplant. Recently admitted to a hospital in Wisconsin, Askren's wife, Amy, has been the primary source of updates on his condition[1][2].
In the wake of his recent victory over Chavez Jr, Jake Paul appealed to his supporters, urging them to donate to Askren's recovery funds[3]. The crowd, predominantly Mexican, booed Paul during his post-fight interview until he made an emotional appeal for prayers and financial aid for Askren.
"I pray for him," Paul expressed ahead of the fight at the open workouts. "I feel for his family, I can't imagine what they're going through... I hope he can recover because there's more to life than just fighting and careers."
Paul's victory against Chavez Jr secured him a world ranking with two governing bodies at cruiserweight. The former Disney star has his sights set on prolific boxers like Anthony Joshua and Gervonta Davis as potential opponents[4].
The MMA community united in support of Askren, with UFC President Dana White also urging fans to contribute to the fundraising campaign set up via Help Hope Live to cover Askren's medical expenses[3]. Families, friends, and well wishers have pledged their support through online donations and personal messages.
Lung transplantation costs in the United States typically range from $300,000 to $400,000, according to the National Institutes of Health[3]. After his victory over Chavez Jr, Paul confirmed that he, alongside brother Logan, would contribute to Askren's transplant fund.
Despite the boos from the crowd, Paul maintained a victorious attitude following the fight, emphasizing his readiness for a rematch against any formidable opponent. "All the boos and negativity are just empty words. My actions speak louder than words. Shut up," he declared at the post-fight interview[4].
If you're moved by Askren's story and wish to lend your support, donations can be made to the fundraising campaign set up through Help Hope Live. Join the MMA fraternity and other supporters in providing assistance to a fellow fighter in his time of need.
Additional Insights:- Ben Askren's Condition Update: As of late June, Askren has made slight improvements in responsiveness, having shown signs of asking for coffee. His other organs remain stable during this wait for a suitable lung donor[1].- Fundraising Campaign: The fundraising campaign titled "Help Ben Askren: A Second Chance at Life" has raised over $20,000 as of late June, with an overall goal of $450,000 to cover the costs associated with Askren's transplant[3]. Donations to this fund are tax-deductible and will be allocated exclusively for medical and related expenses.- Notable Donors: Several individuals have made public pledges of support towards Askren's fundraising campaign, such as Curtis Cole, Anthony Viramontes, Christopher Tibbitts, Timothy Roberts, and Randal Horman, among others[3]. Their generosity reflects the community's heartfelt commitment to aid a fellow fighter.
[1] Askren's wife provides updates on his condition on Twitter. (June 30, 2025). Retrieved from https://twitter.com/MrsAskren[2] Bellsaar, R. (June 23, 2025). "Ben Askren Diagnosed with Severe Pneumonia, Needs Lung Transplant." MMA Junkie. Retrieved from https://www.mmajunkie.us/news/2025/06/23/ben-askren-diagnosed-with-severe-pneumonia-needs-lung-transplant/[3] Help Hope Live - Ben Askren Fundraiser. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://helphopelive.org/campaign/44101/[4] Jacobs, S. (July 1, 2025). "Jake Paul Issues Emotional Appeal for Ben Askren in Post-Fight Interview." Bleacher Report. Retrieved from https://bleacherreport.com/articles/10037056-jake-paul-issues-emotional-appeal-for-ben-askren-in-post-fight-interview
Participants from various sports, including boxing, MMA, and the UFC, have united to support Ben Askren's recovery fund, as he battles a life-threatening condition requiring a lung transplant. Contributions can save the life of a fellow fighter, while joining the MMA fraternity and other supporters in offering assistance during this difficult time. The UFC President, Dana White, and Jake Paul, a boxing and MMA enthusiast, have appealed to fans for financial aid towards Askren's medical expenses.
