Ben Askren is one of the most dominant welterweights in the world. Just this past weekend he manhandled his 5th ONE opponent with such tenacity the poor guy barely landed a punch.
As revealed in 2014 Askren’s one contract was for 6 fights over 2 years.
The contract that Askren signed with ONE FC is for six fights over two years and he will earn $50,000 guaranteed just for showing up to his first bout, with another $50,000 in bonus pay should he emerge victorious. He also has an incentive included in the agreement that specifies his winnings increase for each subsequent bout.
At the time Askren was fresh of 12-0 Bellator streak and was coveted by all major promotions.
ONE’s Chatri Sityodtong announced:
I am thrilled to announce two world title fights for ONE Championship: Immortal Pursuit in Singapore on November 24!
Angela Lee (8-0) vs Mei”V.V” Yamaguchi (16-10)
Ben Askren (17-0) vs Shinya Aoki (39-7)
Angela and Mei have agreed to what will arguably be the most anticipated rematch in the history of martial arts in Asia. Also, for the 1st time in ONE history, two athletes from the same team will go to battle for a world title. In what will be a ferocious contest between two great white sharks, Shinya Aoki and Ben Askren have decided to lay it all on the line. Win or lose, this fight will be Ben’s last. Ben has made the decision to retire after this fight to become an executive at ONE. You do not want to miss this mega event in Singapore!
Aoki (39-7) is 34 years old and his last bout was a TKO loss from Eduard Folayang. He most recently grappled Garry Tonon.
