They say the fifth time’s the charm, but for former B.J. Penn, it marks yet another arrest. The former UFC lightweight and welterweight champion was taken into custody in Hawaii for violating a restraining order filed by his mother.
Details of the Arrest
Hilo police confirmed that Penn, 46, was arrested on September 15, 2025, after entering a property in violation of a court-ordered protection order. Officers located and arrested him without incident. He was charged and released on $2,000 bail the following day.
This incident marks his fifth arrest of the year, following previous charges for abuse of a family or household member and multiple violations of the same restraining order.
Background of the Restraining Order
The protection order was issued after Penn’s mother, Lorraine Shin, alleged a series of disturbing incidents, including psychological abuse, tampering with home security systems, and alleged physical confrontations. She told authorities she believed Penn suffers from Capgras delusional syndrome, a rare psychiatric condition where someone believes loved ones have been replaced by imposters.
The restraining order, valid until May 2026, requires Penn to have no contact with his mother and remain at least 100 yards away from her residence.
Who is B.J. Penn?
B.J. Penn is a retired mixed martial artist and former two-division UFC champion. Known as “The Prodigy,” he made history by capturing titles in both the lightweight and welterweight divisions. A Brazilian jiu-jitsu prodigy, Penn was one of the first Americans to win the BJJ World Championship at black belt. Despite his legendary fighting career, his post-retirement years have been marred by legal troubles and repeated arrests.
FAQs About B.J. Penn’s Arrest
Why was B.J. Penn arrested?
He was arrested for violating a restraining order that required him to stay away from his mother’s home in Hilo, Hawaii.
Who filed the restraining order against B.J. Penn?
His mother, Lorraine Shin, filed the order after repeated incidents at home.
How many times has B.J. Penn been arrested this year?
This is his fifth arrest in 2025, including multiple violations of the same protection order.
Who is B.J. Penn?
He is a retired UFC fighter, former lightweight and welterweight champion, and one of the most accomplished American grapplers in MMA history.
