Former UFC Star BJ Penn Arrested for Assault in Hawaii

BREAKING: Former UFC champion BJ Penn was arrested and charged with third-degree assault on Tuesday, marking his sixth arrest of 2025. The incident occurred in Hilo, Hawaii, where police took Penn into custody at 11:50 a.m. following an assault report received the previous day.

The alleged victim, a 45-year-old man, accused Penn of delivering multiple punches and kicks during the altercation, resulting in injuries that required medical attention. This latest arrest adds to a troubling pattern for the 46-year-old former fighter, who has faced a series of legal challenges this year.

Penn, whose birth name is Jay Dee Penn, was released on $1,000 bail and is scheduled for an initial court appearance on December 2, 2025. If convicted, he could face up to one year in jail, highlighting the severity of the charge.

Earlier this year, Penn was ordered by a judge to undergo a mental health evaluation, a reflection of ongoing concerns regarding his behavior. This evaluation is set for a court appearance in January. Much of Penn’s legal turmoil stems from his belief that “imposters” have infiltrated his family, leading to disturbing allegations, including a protection order granted to his mother, Lorraine Shin, due to domestic abuse claims.

In April, Penn publicly urged the Hilo Police Department to investigate what he described as the murders of his family members, alleging conspiracies against him. This outcry underscores the depth of his struggles, both personally and legally.

As the former UFC lightweight champion grapples with these serious charges, his future remains uncertain. The public and fans alike are left wondering how these developments will impact his already tumultuous life, as he continues to navigate the fallout from a career that ended on a troubling seven-fight losing streak.

Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story as it unfolds.