Former UFC Star BJ Penn Arrested for Assault in Hawaii

BREAKING: Former UFC champion BJ Penn has been arrested and charged with third-degree assault in his sixth arrest of 2025. This incident took place on Tuesday, December 1, 2025, when Penn, 46, was taken into custody without incident at 11:50 a.m. by the Hawaii Police Department.

Authorities responded to a report of assault at a residence in Hilo, Hawaii, at 1:00 a.m. the same day. The alleged victim, a 45-year-old man, accused Penn of punching and kicking him multiple times, resulting in injuries that required medical attention. Following his arrest, Penn posted $1,000 bail and is scheduled to make his initial court appearance on the assault charge on December 2, 2025.

Conviction for third-degree assault in Hawaii can lead to a maximum of one year in jail. This latest legal issue adds to a troubling pattern for the former fighter, who has faced numerous legal challenges throughout the year. Last month, a judge ordered Penn to undergo a mental health evaluation, with a court appearance regarding that evaluation set for January 2026.

Most of Penn’s troubles this year stem from his belief that “imposters” have replaced his family members. In a series of alarming public statements, he requested that the Hilo Police investigate alleged threats against his family, claiming that “fake frauds” are trying to steal from them. Earlier this year, his mother, Lorraine Shin, obtained a protection order against him after alleging domestic abuse.

Penn’s storied career in mixed martial arts ended in 2019 after a devastating seven-fight losing streak, with three of those losses coming by knockout. Since his retirement, his life has been marked by escalating legal issues and personal struggles.

As developments unfold, many are watching closely to see how this latest incident will impact Penn’s ongoing legal challenges. Stay tuned for updates as the situation progresses.