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Fifth Arrest Since May For Former UFC Legend
Jason Silva-Imagn Images

Former UFC two-division champion B.J. Penn was arrested Tuesday in Hilo, Hawaii, marking his fifth arrest since late May. Police charged the 46-year-old UFC Hall of Famer with violating a restraining order filed by his mother, Lorraine Shin, who has accused Penn of repeated abuse and erratic behavior linked to an alleged psychological disorder.

Penn was taken into custody without incident after officers determined he entered a property in violation of the protection order. He was booked and released on $2,000 bail.

Protection Order and Allegations

The restraining order, granted in late August by Judge Jeffrey Ng, prevents Penn from contacting Shin, 79, in any form until May 26, 2026. Court records show Shin successfully argued that her son subjected her to “domestic abuse and/or extreme psychological abuse.” She also alleged Penn suffers from Capgras syndrome, a rare psychological disorder in which a person believes loved ones have been replaced by imposters.

In recent months, Penn has made multiple social-media posts claiming that his family members, particularly his mother, are not who they appear to be.

Pattern of Behavior

The latest arrest continues a troubling pattern. Penn was previously arrested four times in less than three weeks earlier this year, facing charges that included abuse of a family or household member.

In her filings, Shin detailed a disturbing escalation of incidents:

  • Personal belongings, jewelry, and even her bed allegedly removed from her home in May.

  • Purse, identification, and safe locks stolen days later.

  • Security cameras tampered with and glue placed inside deadbolt locks.

  • An alleged physical altercation on May 25, where Penn reportedly shoved her against a car, causing pain to her back.

  • Repeated violations of police stay-away orders, including another break-in the following day.

Upcoming Trials

Penn has trials scheduled for late October and early November on prior charges. His repeated arrests have left the UFC legend embroiled in legal turmoil rather than the sport where he once shined.

A Career Overshadowed

Penn, a former lightweight and welterweight champion. Last fought in the UFC in 2019, suffering his seventh consecutive defeat before being released. His post-fight years have been marred by legal troubles, including viral footage of him in a street fight outside a Hawaii bar.

Once celebrated as one of MMA’s pioneering champions, Penn’s legacy is now increasingly clouded by arrests, family disputes, and troubling allegations.

This article first appeared on Dice City Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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