Ex-UFC Champion BJ Penn Faces Assault Charges in Sixth 2025 Arrest
Former UFC champion BJ Penn is facing serious legal troubles, having been arrested for the sixth time in 2025. On November 5, 2025, Penn, 46, was charged with third-degree assault following an incident in Hilo, Hawaii. According to the Hawaii Police Department, he was taken into custody at 11:50 a.m. without incident. This arrest stems from an alleged assault reported the previous day.
BJ Penn’s Latest Arrest Details
The incident occurred at approximately 1 a.m. when officers responded to a report of an assault at a private residence. The alleged victim, a 45-year-old man, claimed that Penn punched and kicked him multiple times. Following the altercation, the victim sought medical treatment for his injuries.
- Arrest Date: November 5, 2025
- Time of Arrest: 11:50 a.m.
- Location: Hilo, Hawaii
- Alleged Victim’s Age: 45
- Bail Amount: $1,000
- Court Appearance: Scheduled for December 2, 2025
Legal Consequences of Third-Degree Assault
In Hawaii, a third-degree assault conviction can lead to a maximum penalty of one year in jail. This incident marks another chapter in a troubling year for Penn, who has encountered numerous legal challenges. In October, a judge mandated that he undergo a mental health evaluation, with a scheduled court appearance regarding this evaluation set for January.
Past Legal Issues and Mental Health Concerns
Much of Penn’s recent troubles appear linked to his belief that “imposters” have taken the place of his family members. Earlier this year, his mother, Lorraine Shin, obtained a protection order against him, citing domestic abuse allegations from May. Additionally, in April, Penn publicly urged the Hilo Police Department to investigate supposed fraudulent activities concerning his family.
BJ Penn’s MMA Career
Formerly a renowned UFC lightweight champion, Penn’s storied career came to a close in 2019. His final years in mixed martial arts were marked by a disappointing seven-fight losing streak from 2011 to 2019, with three of those losses occurring via knockout.
With his latest arrest, fans and observers alike are left to ponder the future of BJ Penn, once celebrated for his fighting prowess, now entangled in significant legal issues.
