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Anyone who pays attention to mixed martial arts knows the name Ben Askren. He has stood out as a talented fighter since his earliest days on the mat. The experience he brings to the sport includes years of training as a folkstyle wrestler. He has quick reflexes and a scrambling technique that made him an effective fighter.<\/span><\/p>\n How much does someone like Ben Askren earn? Events come with different purses, so the amount that he makes depends on his fighting organizations and performances. One thing is certain; he has managed to turn his natural talents and hard work ethic into a small fortune that will keep him comfortable for life. Considering that he makes his money as a fighter, it\u2019s safe to say that he earned his fortune the hard way!<\/span><\/p>\n Ben Askren developed an interest in combat sports at just six years old when his father introduced him to wrestling. The Cedar Rapids boy started taking his training seriously when he entered sixth grade and joined a wrestling club. <\/span><\/p>\n After moving to Wisconsin and joining his high school\u2019s wrestling team, his talents really started to shine. He was named the state champion twice before graduating and focused his attention on becoming a more well-rounded athlete at the University of Wisconsin.<\/span><\/p>\n Unfortunately for Ben, who quickly earned the nickname \u201cfunky\u201d for his unconventional wrestling style, he had to face Chris Pendleton during his first two years of college. Pendleton already had a reputation as one of the country\u2019s top amateur wrestlers. <\/span><\/p>\n Askren took second place during his first and second Big 12 Conference Championships. Pendleton took first. During Askren\u2019s junior and senior years, though, he dominated the sport, winning two Dan Hodge Trophies and a Schalles Award. During those two years, he competed in and won 87 matches.<\/span><\/p>\nWho Is Ben Askren: Rise to Fame<\/span><\/h2>\n