Wyatt Hendrickson’s heartfelt message is a testament to what makes the wrestling community so special. In a time of crisis, one champion stepped forward to support another, not for recognition or fame, but because it was the right thing to do
Ben Askren’s fight is far from over, but he’s not facing it alone. He has the unwavering support of his family, his fans, and most importantly, his wrestling brothers like Hendrickson. Together, they form a powerful force of hope, strength, and unity.
As Hendrickson put it, “Let’s do our part.” And the world of wrestling is answering that call.
Wyatt Hendrickson is more than a champion wrestler—he is a symbol of how sports can unite, uplift, and inspire.
His message resonates with wrestlers, fans, and patriots alike: when you step onto the mat with the American flag on your back, you’re wrestling not just for yourself, but for something far greater.
In every slam, every takedown, and every triumphant lift of the flag, Hendrickson shows what it means to carry the weight of national pride with grace, strength, and humility.
His journey reminds us that wrestling isn’t just a battle of strength—it’s a celebration of spirit. And for Wyatt Hendrickson, that spirit proudly wears red, white, and blue.
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Wyatt Hendrickson Rallies Wrestling Community for Ben Askren
The wrestling world is known not just for its fierce competition but also for the unwavering bond among its athletes.1
This sense of unity and family was deeply felt when Wyatt Hendrickson, a standout NCAA Champion and rising star in American wrestling, came forward to support Ben Askren, a legend in the sport who is now facing a grave health battle.
Askren, a former Olympic wrestler and UFC fighter, was recently placed on a lung transplant list after suffering from severe pneumonia.
The news shook fans and fellow athletes alike, prompting heartfelt responses from the wrestling community—none more passionate than Hendrickson’s.
LINK IN BIO pic.twitter.com/UByGMuDsRB
— Wyatt Hendrickson (@wyatt_hendrick) March 29, 2025
Ben Askren’s Medical Struggles: A Shocking Turn of Events
On June 7, 2025, Ben Askren’s wife publicly disclosed that her husband had been hospitalized due to severe pneumonia. What initially seemed like a routine medical emergency soon took a serious turn.
After two weeks of treatment and no significant improvement in his condition, Askren’s health deteriorated, leading doctors to place him on a lung transplant list.
Askren, a name synonymous with wrestling excellence, is revered for his accomplishments in both collegiate wrestling and mixed martial arts.
The transition from being a high-performance athlete to a patient in need of a vital organ transplant stunned fans around the world. It highlighted the fragility of life, even for those considered the toughest and most physically resilient.
Wyatt Hendrickson’s Touching Tribute and Call for Support
Among the flood of well-wishes and prayers, Wyatt Hendrickson’s message stood out—not just for its sincerity, but for the emotional depth and community-centered spirit it carried.2
Hendrickson, a multiple-time All-American and one of the most dominant heavyweights in recent NCAA history, used his platform to spread awareness and gather support for Askren.
“Yes, I do love wrestling, but it’s not all about winning. At the end of the day, it’s about community… Friendship… Family…. Respect,” Hendrickson wrote on social media.
In those few lines, Hendrickson echoed what many within the sport have long believed: wrestling is a brotherhood. It extends far beyond the mat, and in moments of hardship, that unity becomes even more important.
Why Ben Askren Means So Much to the Wrestling Community
To understand the gravity of this moment, one must appreciate who Ben Askren is. Before he ever entered the UFC’s Octagon, Askren was a collegiate wrestling phenomenon.
He was a two-time NCAA Champion for the University of Missouri, known for his unorthodox style and near-untouchable takedown defense. He finished his college career with a staggering 153–8 record and was a four-time All-American.
Askren then represented the United States in freestyle wrestling at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, embodying the American dream for many young wrestlers.
His transition to MMA saw him win world titles in multiple promotions, all while staying true to his wrestling roots.
His legacy isn’t just built on medals or championship belts—it’s built on inspiring the next generation.
Hendrickson’s public support underscores how influential Askren has been, not only to fans but to elite athletes like himself.
The Power of Sports Communities in Times of Crisis
In professional sports, rivalries and competition often grab the headlines, but moments like these reveal the deeper values that many athletes live by.
Hendrickson’s statement wasn’t about achievements, statistics, or accolades. It was about human compassion and the shared journey of those who dedicate their lives to a physically and mentally demanding sport.
The phrase “We are Team USA” carried extra weight in Hendrickson’s post. It wasn’t just a slogan; it was a call to action. From grassroots wrestling clubs to Olympic-level training centers, the message was clear: rally behind Ben.
How Wyatt Hendrickson is Using His Platform for Greater Good?
In the age of social media, athletes are more than competitors—they are influencers, role models, and, sometimes, advocates.3
Hendrickson’s decision to use his voice and platform to support Askren illustrates the responsibility top athletes can take on.
By asking for prayers and encouraging fans to show support, he opened a door for collective healing, empathy, and action.
Hendrickson didn’t just speak to wrestling fans—he reached people across sports, reminding them that their heroes are human too. His message, ending with a symbolic ❤️🤍💙 and the hashtag #PrayForBen, resonated far and wide.
A Glimpse into the Wrestling Brotherhood
The term “wrestling family” is often thrown around, but this situation showcased just how real that bond can be. Hendrickson’s words—“We are all family.
Let’s do our part and show him support.”—summed up a sentiment shared by many: that wrestling isn’t just a sport, it’s a way of life rooted in mutual respect and lifelong connections.
This sense of brotherhood is often forged through early morning practices, grueling training sessions, and shared triumphs and defeats.
When one member of that family is in need, the entire community rallies behind them. It’s a culture of resilience, and Hendrickson’s actions reflected that ethos perfectly.
Fans, Friends, and Fighters Respond to Hendrickson’s Message
Following Hendrickson’s post, an outpouring of support for Askren began trending online. Fellow wrestlers, UFC fighters, college coaches, and fans all echoed his sentiments.
Social media platforms were flooded with tributes, well wishes, and stories about how Askren had inspired them.
Whether it was a former teammate remembering Askren’s leadership or a young athlete sharing how Askren motivated them to pursue wrestling, the effect was clear—his impact transcends his own career.
Staying Strong Amid Uncertainty
While the wrestling world has taken up the cause, it’s Askren’s family that remains the cornerstone of his strength during this fight.
His wife has continued to update fans, and their transparency has allowed for a deeper emotional connection between the public and the private battle they’re fighting.
The strength shown by the Askrens has only galvanized the community further. As more athletes follow Hendrickson’s lead, the collective voice supporting Askren grows louder.
Moments like these become pivotal in shaping the culture of a sport. Hendrickson’s empathy, leadership, and maturity at such a young age mark him as more than just an athlete. He is becoming a steward of wrestling’s values.
For the younger generation watching this unfold, it sends a powerful message: greatness isn’t just measured in wins—it’s measured in how you show up for others when it matters most.
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Wyatt Hendrickson: Wrestling with Purpose and Pride
In the high-stakes arena of NCAA Division I Wrestling, intensity and skill dominate the mat. But for Wyatt Hendrickson, it’s not just about technique or titles—it’s about representing something bigger than himself.
Following his impressive win at the NCAA Championships, Hendrickson gave a heartfelt interview where he reflected on what it means to wear the American flag and how his journey as a wrestler intertwines with purpose, patriotism, and a vision for inspiring future generations.
Wrestling as a Platform for Unity and Patriotism
When Wyatt Hendrickson steps onto the mat, he doesn’t just see an opponent in front of him—he sees an opportunity to represent the United States and uphold the values that come with that honor.
For Hendrickson, wearing the American flag is not a simple symbol—it is a responsibility, a message, and a privilege.
“From the very beginning, it’s more than wrestling,” he stated. “I think trying to portray that and giving that image is important.”
Hendrickson sees every match as a chance to embody the freedoms afforded by his country. Competing at the NCAA Championships in front of passionate fans, under the national spotlight, reminds him of the liberty to gather, compete, and be supported by a community.
He emphasizes that the flag he carries is more than just a banner—it’s a symbol of unity, hard work, and shared values.
Wyatt Hendrickson: Support from Fans and Community
Hendrickson openly credited the unwavering support from fans as a key source of motivation.
He knows that behind every athlete is a network of encouragement—from local communities and wrestling clubs to national supporters and veterans who view wrestling as a form of patriotic representation.
“I just like to bring that energy into the arena,” he shared. “That you know we are all on one team at the end of the day.”
The community aspect of wrestling, for Hendrickson, is just as important as the competitive one. Despite the fierce rivalries, he recognizes the broader picture—that when American wrestlers enter international competitions, they stand together, regardless of previous battles on domestic mats.
The idea that “iron sharpens iron” encapsulates his belief in respectful competition as a means to collective growth and success.
Waving the Flag: A Statement of Unity
When Hendrickson hoisted the American flag after securing the NCAA title, it was a deeply symbolic moment. To spectators, it may have been a celebration of victory. But to Hendrickson, it was much more—it was a demonstration of gratitude and unity.
By waving the flag, he celebrated not only his own win but the shared journey of every athlete who pushes through pain, doubt, and pressure. “It’s all one team in the end,” he emphasized, reminding everyone that beyond rivalries lies a common national identity.
Whether it’s the Olympics, World Championships, or other international events, Hendrickson believes that the American wrestling community becomes one unified force once the stars and stripes are on their backs.
Wyatt Hendrickson: New Vlog
Wyatt Hendrickson shared his recently uploaded vlog’s link in his instagram post, where he is showing his whole day routine to his fans.
View this post on Instagram
Inspiring the Next Generation of Wrestlers
More than medals and championships, Hendrickson wants his legacy to be one of inspiration. He’s keenly aware that young athletes watch his every move—both on and off the mat.
“I wanted to inspire the upcoming generation of wrestlers with my pursuits,” he said.
His goal is to pass on more than just techniques or training tips. Hendrickson wants young wrestlers to see that wrestling can be a vehicle for expressing values like discipline, dedication, patriotism, and humility.
In an era where athletes often find themselves under public scrutiny, Hendrickson chooses to be a role model who uplifts and unites.
Balancing Individual Goals with National Representation
- Every wrestler dreams of personal success—titles, records, accolades. But Hendrickson strikes a rare balance between individual ambition and national pride.
- While he trains relentlessly to be the best, he does so with an awareness that he is part of a larger story.
- “Iron sharpens iron,” he repeated during his interview, reinforcing the idea that his rivals push him to be better.
- It’s a sentiment that reflects sportsmanship and respect. Hendrickson doesn’t see others as enemies but as essential parts of his growth. And in doing so, he helps foster a culture of mutual development among American wrestlers.
- Wearing the American flag carries emotional significance. For many athletes, it’s the culmination of years of sacrifice. For Hendrickson, it’s a chance to give back. The privilege of representation is something he holds dearly.
- In his words, “We are so honored to live in a free country… and do what we love.”
- This acknowledgment of freedom and opportunity isn’t just a soundbite—it’s a deep truth that shapes how he competes and carries himself.
- Hendrickson knows that not every athlete around the world enjoys the same liberties, and that reality fuels his commitment to make the most of every match, every moment, every chance to represent.
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