Ben Askren Opens Up About Autism Spectrum Traits, Says He's Never Been Formally Diagnosed

Ben Askren, a former UFC welterweight champion and Olympic wrestler, stunned the combat sports world by revealing he identifies with autism spectrum traits—despite never receiving a formal diagnosis. In an exclusive interview ahead of his return at RAF 11 on July 15, 2026, Askren opened up about behavioral patterns that align with autism, including intense focus, social awkwardness, and sensory sensitivities. The revelation adds a deeply personal layer to the career of an athlete known for his blunt, no-nonsense persona.

Askren, 41, has built a reputation as one of the most unorthodox yet effective fighters in MMA history. His wrestling-heavy style and trash-talking bravado made him a fan favorite. But behind the microphone and the octagon, Askren says he has long felt different. 'I've never been formally diagnosed, but the older I get, the more I look back and see signs—the way I obsess over details, how I struggle in crowds, my literal interpretation of things,' Askren told Forbes. His comments come amid a broader societal shift toward destigmatizing autism, particularly in hypermasculine environments like professional sports.

The interview was conducted by Brian Mazique for Forbes, a mainstream business publication covering the intersection of sports and health. Askren's decision to speak out is notable because few combat sports athletes have publicly discussed neurodivergence. Notable exceptions include NFL player Lewis Brinson and MLB's Chris Davis, but MMA has been largely silent. Askren's platform reaches millions of fight fans, potentially opening the door for other athletes to share their experiences.

Askren did not specify which particular traits he identifies with, but he described a lifelong difficulty reading social cues and an 'all-or-nothing' approach to hobbies and training. He also noted that his two children are diagnosed with autism, which prompted him to reflect on his own behaviors. 'Seeing my kids go through assessments, I realized a lot of it sounded like me,' he said. The self-identification without formal diagnosis puts Askren in a growing category of adults who recognize autistic traits in themselves but choose not to seek clinical labeling.

Experts in sports psychology point out that many elite athletes exhibit traits—hyperfocus, repetition, sensory avoidance—that overlap with autism spectrum characteristics without meeting full diagnostic criteria. Dr. Emily White, a clinical psychologist specializing in neurodivergence, says, 'High-performance environments can actually mask autism because the intense focus is rewarded. But that comes at a cost, often leading to burnout or anxiety.' Askren's openness may help normalize the conversation and encourage athletes to seek support without fear of being stigmatized.

What comes next for Askren is his fight at RAF 11, where he faces a yet-unnamed opponent. But his lasting impact may extend beyond the cage. By sharing his story, he challenges long-held stereotypes about what an autistic person looks like—especially a former champion known for his physical dominance. The conversation around neurodiversity in sports is still in its infancy, but voices like Askren's are crucial. As more public figures speak up, the hope is that awareness will lead to better accommodations and acceptance for athletes at all levels.