Kamaru Usman and Ben Askren, two well-known figures in MMA, have finally ended their lengthy dispute amid Askren’s ongoing health struggles. The reconciliation, revolving around the controversial “Marty from Nebraska” label, marks a significant moment in their turbulent relationship as they put past animosities behind them.
Ben Askren, a former Bellator and ONE FC champion from Wisconsin, has kept fans updated on his difficult health journey through social media. Meanwhile, Kamaru Usman, known as ‘The Nigerian Nightmare,’ secured his place in UFC history by winning the welterweight title at UFC 235 in March 2019, the very event where Askren earned a controversial submission victory over Robbie Lawler.
The Origins of the Rivalry and Its Impact on Both Fighters
The friction between Usman and Askren began before UFC 235, fueled by Askren’s dismissal of Usman as just “a Marty from Nebraska,” a derogatory nickname implying an unremarkable or generic fighter. Tensions escalated to the point that security had to separate the two to prevent a physical altercation. After that incident, they followed vastly different paths and avoided reconciliation for nearly five years.
Recently, while hospitalized, Askren appeared to curb his sharp remarks about Usman. However, during a hospital visit, Askren’s use of the disliked nickname prompted an immediate response from Usman, who blocked him after the comment. Askren expressed surprise at this reaction, saying,
“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…My buddy was flabbergasted!”
—Ben Askren
Usman responded respectfully to the comment, and the long-standing feud officially ended when Askren acknowledged reconciliation with three praying hand emojis. This gesture symbolized the closure of a rivalry that had defined much of their careers and personal interactions for years.
Support from the MMA Community During Askren’s Health Crisis
Askren’s current health condition has drawn sympathy and support from the MMA world, including notable figures such as Jorge Masvidal. Masvidal was among the first to reach out to Askren following his severe bout with pneumonia, which left him on a ventilator and ECMO for nearly three weeks. Fortunately, Askren received a double lung transplant, a life-saving operation after being placed on the donor list.
Today, Askren shows signs of recovery, regularly updating followers on his mounting health improvements. Usman, for his part, is focused on regaining momentum in his fighting career and has expressed determination to chase championship gold once again.
Kamaru Usman’s Career Resilience and Recent Comeback Highlights
Kamaru Usman has experienced both dominance and adversity in the UFC. After reigning as the welterweight champion with a flawless 5-0 streak, he endured three consecutive losses, a period filled with injuries and doubt. His recent triumph over rising contender Joaquin Buckley at UFC on ESPN in Atlanta marked a stirring comeback against the odds.
Usman’s manager, Ali Abdelaziz, has spoken openly about the emotional weight of Usman’s journey, especially given the surgeries and setbacks he has overcome. Abdelaziz shared on the ‘Pound-4-Pound‘ podcast,
“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.”
—Ali Abdelaziz
Usman’s path forward remains open, as he considers whether to wait a year for a gradual title shot or continue competing to build momentum. Having faced opponents such as Colby Covington, Jorge Masvidal, Gilbert Burns, Demian Maia, and Sean Strickland in consecutive fights, Usman’s resilience is widely admired within the sport.
What Lies Ahead for Usman and Askren
The reconciliation between Kamaru Usman and Ben Askren holds significant weight given their shared history and Askren’s current health battle. Usman’s focus on regaining his position atop the welterweight division signals his drive to remain a top contender, while Askren’s recovery opens possibilities for his future beyond fighting.
This mended relationship also reflects a larger trend of respect and unity emerging from past conflicts in the MMA community. The end of this feud may inspire other fighters to reconcile differences, reaffirming the sport’s competitive spirit without lasting personal animosity.
As both men navigate their next chapters, the MMA world watches with anticipation—whether Usman will reclaim championship glory or Askren will embrace a new role following his near-death experience. Their renewed connection adds a meaningful layer to their legacies, reminding fans that even fierce rivalries can be resolved amid life’s greater challenges.