Ben Askren and Kamaru Usman—two names that once fueled one of MMA’s most memorable rivalries—have finally put their long-standing feud to rest. This unexpected reconciliation comes amid Askren’s ongoing health crisis, a battle that’s tested his resilience far beyond anything he faced in the octagon. For fans who followed their heated exchanges and near-confrontations, the recent turn of events marks a poignant chapter in the story of two fierce competitors who have found respect for each other in the face of adversity.
Askren, the 41-year-old former UFC welterweight and wrestling standout, has been fighting for his life after a severe case of pneumonia led to a double lung transplant. The gravity of his situation became clear as he spent nearly three weeks on a ventilator and ECMO, a life-support system reserved for the most critical cases. After returning home, his recovery was interrupted by a hospital readmission due to an infection, but he’s continued to keep fans updated on social media about his progress and the daily challenges he faces.
In the midst of this struggle, Askren showed a side of himself that surprised many, including those who remembered him for his sharp wit and relentless trash talk. On August 2, 2025, Askren shared a story on X (formerly Twitter) about a hospital visit from an old friend. The friend referenced Usman by the infamous nickname “Marty from Nebraska,” a moniker that had become a running joke in MMA circles thanks to Askren’s own efforts during their feud back in 2019. But instead of laughing it off, Askren immediately shut down the conversation. “Had an old friend come visit me at the hospital and he brought up Marty from Nebraska and I said you can’t call him Marty anymore bc he will get pi**ed. My buddy was flabbergasted!” Askren tweeted, signaling a dramatic shift in his attitude toward his former adversary.
This gesture didn’t go unnoticed. Kamaru Usman, who had every reason to hold onto old grudges, responded with remarkable class. “@Benaskren happy you’re doing well my man. One day at a time you’ll be back,” Usman replied on social media, offering words of encouragement that resonated with fans and fighters alike. Askren, in turn, replied with three praying emojis—a simple but powerful acknowledgment that the feud was finally over.
The rivalry between Askren and Usman dates back to March 2019 at UFC 235. On that night, Askren scored a controversial submission win over Robbie Lawler, while Usman claimed the welterweight title by defeating Tyron Woodley. Their backstage confrontations became legendary, with security needing to intervene when tensions flared over Askren’s persistent use of the “Marty” nickname. The nickname, which Usman disliked intensely, was Askren’s way of getting under his rival’s skin. “He will get pissed,” Askren admitted, reflecting on how much the nickname had become a sore spot for Usman.
Despite the hype and anticipation, the two never settled their differences in the cage. Their careers diverged: Askren retired after a brief but headline-grabbing UFC stint, while Usman went on to establish himself as one of the most dominant welterweights in MMA history. Usman’s reign included victories over the likes of Colby Covington, Jorge Masvidal, Gilbert Burns, Demian Maia, and Sean Strickland, making him a modern legend in the sport.
Usman’s own journey has not been without its setbacks. After a dominant 5-0 run as welterweight champion, he suffered three consecutive losses—a streak that would test the resolve of any fighter. Yet, in a remarkable comeback, Usman returned to form with a decisive win over rising prospect Joaquin Buckley at UFC on ESPN: Usman vs. Buckley in Atlanta. The victory, following a three-year layoff and numerous injuries, was described by his manager Ali Abdelaziz as one of his proudest moments, alongside Khabib Nurmagomedov’s win at UFC 229. “It really hurt me. Yeah, that really took something from me. The two wins I’m so proud of, when Khabib beat Conor and when you beat Buckley, not when you won the title…It was because I know what this dude went through. Hip surgeries and knee surgeries and everybody write him off. He tried to come back. He tried to work but he can’t work and that really… The Leon fight, it really took a piece out of me,” Abdelaziz said on the ‘Pound-4-Pound’ Podcast.
Askren’s battle outside the cage has inspired a different kind of respect. Known for his relentless drive and ability to get under the skin of opponents, he’s now showing the world a new side—one marked by humility, dignity, and a willingness to let bygones be bygones. His decision to discourage the use of the “Marty from Nebraska” nickname, even in private moments with friends, speaks volumes about his growth as a person and a competitor.
Jorge Masvidal, another common rival, was quick to send his well-wishes to Askren during his health crisis, highlighting how the MMA community often rallies around its own when times get tough. The outpouring of support from fans and fellow fighters has been a testament to Askren’s impact on the sport, both as a competitor and as a personality who brought excitement and unpredictability to every fight week.
For Usman, the end of this feud is more than just a social media exchange—it’s a chance to focus on his own comeback and the possibility of another run at the title. With the welterweight belt up for grabs later this year, Usman and his team are weighing their options, considering whether to wait for a title shot or continue building momentum with more fights. Whatever the decision, his recent performances and newfound maturity suggest he’s far from finished.
As for Askren, his future remains uncertain as he continues his recovery. The MMA world, however, is watching closely, inspired by his openness, his courage, and his willingness to show respect even to those who once stood in his way. The chapter that began with trash talk and heated confrontations has ended with mutual respect and a sense of closure that few rivalries ever achieve.
In the end, the saga of Ben Askren and Kamaru Usman serves as a reminder that even the fiercest competitors can find common ground. Sometimes, it takes life’s toughest battles to bring out the best in people. For now, the feud is over, the respect is real, and both men are moving forward—each with new challenges ahead, but with the weight of old grudges finally lifted.
