Fitness influencer Brian Johnson, better known as the “Liver King,” was arrested Tuesday in Austin, Texas and charged with making a terroristic threat after posting a series of aggressive social media videos aimed at podcast host Joe Rogan.
In the now-deleted posts, Johnson repeatedly challenged Rogan to a fight, saying “Man to man, I’m picking a fight with you,” and referencing Rogan’s black belt in jiu-jitsu. At least one of the videos reportedly showed Johnson handling firearms while issuing the challenge - actions that likely contributed to his arrest under Texas law.
Travis County jail records show Johnson, 47, was booked Tuesday evening and held on $20,000 bond. The misdemeanor charge is considered serious under Texas Penal Code, which prohibits threats that could place someone in fear of serious harm, even if no physical contact occurs.
Background and fallout
Johnson rose to fame promoting an “ancestral lifestyle” and eating raw organ meats, building a massive following online and a multimillion-dollar supplement empire. But his brand took a hit in 2022 after leaked emails revealed he had spent over $10,000 a month on steroids while falsely claiming to be “natty” or drug-free.
His latest videos reignited controversy, not just for their challenge to Rogan but for what critics have described as increasingly erratic and performative behavior.
So far, Joe Rogan has not publicly responded, and it remains unclear if the UFC commentator was directly named in any formal complaint or if he intends to pursue legal action. Austin Police have not released an official statement regarding the arrest or the potential target of the alleged threat.
Johnson is expected to face a court hearing in the coming days.