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Former Bellator MMA world champion Ben Askren is ready to settle the score with Jorge Masvidal, as he challenges 'Gamebred' to a rematch inside the Octagon. The duo's history dates back to their quick encounter at UFC 239, where Masvidal delivered a stunning five-second flying knee knockout against Askren, leaving a lasting impact on both fighters' careers.
Since that fateful night, Askren faced adversity and eventually exited the promotion after a defeat against Lyoto Machida. However, the fire to settle the score with Masvidal has always burned within him.
Recently, Masvidal teased the possibility of a boxing match with Askren, and 'Funky' wasted no time in responding, sharing a screenshot of a text he sent to UFC President Dana White proposing the rematch.
Askren's commitment to the challenge was clear in his follow-up tweet, where he stated, "I'm more than willing to run it back with 'Gamebred' but it'll be in the Octagon, not the ring."
The clash promises to be a captivating showdown, as both fighters have illustrious backgrounds. Before transitioning to MMA, Askren established himself as a two-time Division I NCAA national wrestling champion and a member of the 2008 U.S. Olympic team. His career inside the cage took off with the Bellator welterweight championship, which he defended four times before moving on to ONE Championship.
In ONE Championship, Askren captured the welterweight world title and successfully defended it multiple times. However, his impressive run in Asia was cut short when he was traded to the UFC for Demetrious Johnson, the flyweight GOAT.
Inside the Octagon, Askren experienced mixed fortunes, earning a memorable first-round submission victory against 'Ruthless' Robbie Lawler in his debut. Nevertheless, he faced setbacks in his subsequent bouts, leading to his eventual retirement from the sport in 2019.
Despite stepping away from professional competition, Askren has kept himself in peak physical condition, ready to step back into the limelight for a rematch with Masvidal.
As fans eagerly await the official announcement, the prospect of these two seasoned warriors meeting again in the Octagon generates buzz and excitement throughout the MMA community. Will Askren avenge his past loss, or will Masvidal once again prove his dominance? Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure – this rematch will be one for the ages!