UFC Legend B.J. Penn Arrested for Assault in Latest Turn

ago 3 hours
UFC Legend B.J. Penn Arrested for Assault in Latest Turn

B.J. Penn, a former UFC champion, is facing serious legal challenges following an arrest in Hawaii for alleged assault. The incident took place early on November 4, 2025, in Hilo, where police responded to a report of an assault at about 1 a.m.

B.J. Penn Arrest Details

According to a statement from Hawai’i Police, a 45-year-old man reported that Penn had attacked him, punching and kicking him multiple times. Following the assault, the victim sought medical care at Hilo Benioff Medical Center.

This arrest marks the sixth time Penn has been taken into custody in recent months. Police apprehended him at 11:50 a.m. on Tuesday without any resistance and charged him with third-degree assault. His bail was set at $1,000, which he subsequently paid. Penn is scheduled to appear in court on December 2, 2025.

Background on Recent Arrests

  • Penn has been arrested five times over a four-month span this year.
  • His previous arrest occurred in September when he violated a restraining order issued by his mother, Lorraine Shin.
  • In May, he faced charges for family abuse after allegedly pushing his mother.

B.J. Penn’s Fighting Career

At 46 years old, Penn is known for his remarkable fighting achievements. He started his career in Brazilian jiu-jitsu, earning fame as the first non-Brazilian to win the black belt division at the World Jiu-Jitsu Championship.

Penn made his UFC debut at UFC 31 and captured the Welterweight Championship in 2004, followed by the Lightweight Championship in 2008. He was honored with induction into the UFC Hall of Fame in 2015, acknowledging his significant contributions to the sport.

The last time Penn fought was on May 11, 2019, at UFC 237 against Clay Guida in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

Conclusion

B.J. Penn’s recent legal troubles add to a series of personal challenges. His arrest for assault marks yet another chapter in a tumultuous year for the UFC legend.