Ben Askren explains why he initiated rivalry with Jorge Masvidal in UFC: ‘I had to antagonize the sh*t out of him’

Retired UFC welterweight Ben Askren has reconciled with former rival Jorge Masvidal, ending a long-standing grudge between the two fighters. Askren recently reconnected with Masvidal after enduring a serious health crisis that saw him placed in a medically induced coma before ultimately receiving a life-saving double lung transplant. Following his recovery, Askren shared details of his medical emergency and subsequent rehabilitation journey via social media and an upcoming documentary. Masvidal, learning of Askren's ordeal, reached out to his former antagonist, and the two agreed to put their rivalry behind them and form a friendship instead. Askren had previously explained that he deliberately escalated tensions with Masvidal during their time in the UFC as part of their competitive dynamic, a common practice in combat sports promotion. The reunion marks a significant moment for both fighters, showing that even intense rivalries can transform into mutual respect once personal circumstances shift perspective.