UFC: Dana White backs Ben Askren to continue fighting – ‘I like what he’s brought’
- ‘Funky’ is contemplating retirement but UFC president hails ‘incredible’ fight with Demian Maia in Singapore
- ‘I like Ben Askren and we’ll see what’s next for him,’ says White
Dana White has thrown his support behind Ben Askren after his third-round submission defeat by Demian Maia in Singapore last weekend prompted questions of retirement.
The 35-year-old (19-2) was part of a blockbuster trade with One Championship a year ago this week. Former UFC champion Demetrious Johnson headed the other way, winning his first three fights this year to claim the Asian MMA organisation’s flyweight grand prix.
“Funky” has fared less well, however. A controversial win over Robbie Lawler in March was followed by a five-second knockout by Jorge Masvidal in July. But White said he has “no regrets whatsoever” about the trade.
“That fight was incredible over the weekend, I loved that fight,” White told YouTube channel The Schmo and The Pro.
“It was a fun fight to watch. Ben brought a lot of hype, people were excited about him coming in and seeing what he could do.