The world of combat sports is a realm often defined by intense competition and heated rivalries. Athletes push physical and mental boundaries, sometimes building genuine animosity before stepping into the cage. One such memorable clash involved Jorge “Gamebred” Masvidal and Ben “Funky” Askren, a bout forever etched in UFC history not just for its anticipation, but for its stunningly rapid and brutal conclusion.
Their meeting at UFC 239 in July 2019 was preceded by significant trash talk and mutual disdain. Askren, the undefeated grappling specialist, was seen by many as the toughest test for Masvidal at the time. Masvidal, known for his striking prowess and burgeoning “street Jesus” persona, promised violence. What transpired exceeded all expectations in its brevity: a mere five seconds after the opening bell, Masvidal launched himself across the octagon with a flying knee that connected perfectly, knocking Askren unconscious instantly. The follow-up punches on the ground, while controversial to some, cemented the highlight reel finish as the fastest knockout in UFC history and catapulted Masvidal into superstardom. It was a definitive, almost comically decisive end to a bitter rivalry.
Fast forward from the bright lights of the octagon to a much more somber reality. Ben Askren is currently facing a health challenge far greater than any opponent he met in combat. He has been candid about his struggle with severe double pneumonia, a condition that has visibly taken its toll and required significant medical attention. Askren recently appeared on social media, providing an update to his followers, underscoring the seriousness of his situation.
Upon seeing Askren`s update, Jorge Masvidal, the man responsible for that unforgettable five-second obliteration, offered a surprising and heartfelt message. Setting aside the bad blood and the memorable post-fight taunting, Masvidal extended genuine well wishes to his former rival. In a video message, he acknowledged their past animosity (“I know we were rivals in the ring”) but shifted focus entirely to Askren`s current fight.
Masvidal didn`t mince words, calling Askren a “fucking warrior” for facing his illness, recognizing the immense strength required outside the athletic arena. He described Askren`s current journey as “crazy inspirational” and expressed a sincere desire for his recovery. Perhaps most notably, Masvidal voiced a wish to connect with Askren in person once he returns to the United States, hoping to shake his hand, perhaps even share a prayer, and finally, officially bury the hatchet that few expected to see buried, let alone after being on the receiving end of a flying knee.
This gesture serves as a potent reminder that even in the high-stakes, often gladiatorial world of professional fighting, a baseline of human empathy and respect can emerge. While the flying knee will forever live in infamy as a peak moment of competitive ruthlessness (and, arguably, a masterpiece of brutal efficiency), the willingness of one competitor to offer support and reconciliation to another during a serious health crisis speaks to a deeper reality. It highlights that some battles are far more important than career records or highlight reels, and that even the most intense rivalries can soften when confronted with shared human vulnerability.
