Brian Johnson, widely known online by his persona “The Liver King,” was recently arrested and charged with making a terroristic threat against podcaster and UFC color commentator Joe Rogan. The arrest occurred after Rogan’s security team contacted police regarding a series of erratic videos Johnson posted on social media.
According to a criminal complaint filed against Johnson, an investigation led police to believe he was making credible threats towards Rogan. These threats included numerous social media posts challenging Rogan to a fight and then traveling to Austin, Texas, where the 57-year-old lives.
Police were initially alerted by a member of Rogan’s security team who had seen several of Johnson’s social media posts. The videos escalated from general threats to specifically showing Johnson documenting his trip to Austin and stating he was in the city to fight Joe Rogan.
Rogan’s security requested police intervention due to the escalating nature of Johnson’s behavior, expressing concern about potential harm to Joe Rogan or his family.
The criminal complaint states that authorities reviewed several of Johnson’s videos and concluded his behavior indicated “some sort of mental health episode,” suggesting he might be a danger to himself or others.
One video highlighted by police showed Johnson shirtless, wearing a “fox headdress,” and holding two firearms that appeared to be “gold plated AR-15 short barrel rifles.” In this video, Johnson was recorded saying, “Joe Rogan, I’m calling you out, man to man, I’m picking a fight with you.”
Authorities viewed additional videos, including those showing Johnson making a three-hour drive from his home in Willis, Texas, to Austin, where he continued posting threats against Rogan.
Police eventually spoke with Joe Rogan, who confirmed that his security team had informed him of Johnson’s threats. Rogan stated he interpreted Johnson’s actions and statements “as threatening,” which prompted him to file a police report.
Rogan told police he had no prior contact with Johnson and was unaware why the social media personality had suddenly targeted him.
The veteran UFC commentator further informed police that he had heard Brian Johnson had a “significant drug issue.” Based on the numerous social media posts about him, Rogan stated he believes Johnson is “significantly unstable and seems like he needs help.”
Consequently, police determined that Brian Johnson had committed the act of “terroristic threat” towards Joe Rogan, leading to charges being filed. Johnson was arrested and subsequently released on a $20,000 bond. He was also issued a restraining order requiring him to maintain a distance of at least 200 yards from Rogan, his family, home, and places of business.
As part of his release conditions, Johnson was ordered to undergo a mental health evaluation within seven days.
Johnson’s next court hearing is scheduled for July 16.
