Ben Askren returns to action after recovering from double lung transplant, faces Belal Muhammad at RAF 11

Ben Askren is making a remarkable return to competition after undergoing a double lung transplant, one of the most serious health challenges of his storied combat sports career. The former UFC welterweight champion will face Belal Muhammad at RAF 11 on July 18 at Panther Arena in Milwaukee, marking Askren's first bout since his life-threatening illness.

Askren's health crisis began over a year ago when a severe case of pneumonia forced him into an extended hospital stay spanning nearly two months. The condition proved grave enough to necessitate a double lung transplant, but Askren has since recovered at home and gradually rebuilt his conditioning. Despite the severity of his ordeal, "Funky" has remained involved in combat sports, serving as one of the matchmakers for RAF since the promotion's inception less than a year ago.

Muhammad, competing in his second RAF appearance, is seeking his first victory in the promotion after suffering a technical fall loss to David Carr at RAF 4 in December. The former welterweight contender has his own immediate obligations this weekend, as he is scheduled to face Gabriel Bonfim in the main event of UFC Vegas 118 in an attempt to snap a two-fight losing streak.

Askren's return represents one of combat sports' most inspiring comebacks. Athletes who undergo organ transplants rarely return to professional competition at the highest levels, making his decision to resume fighting both remarkable and a testament to his determination and improved health status.