Brian Johnson, widely recognized online as “The Liver King,” was recently taken into custody and faces charges for making terroristic threats against podcast host and UFC color commentator Joe Rogan. The arrest occurred after Rogan`s security team notified law enforcement about a series of alarming videos Johnson had posted on social media.
Details from the criminal complaint filed against Johnson reveal that an investigation led police to conclude he was posing credible threats to Rogan. Johnson allegedly shared numerous posts online challenging Rogan to a confrontation and even documented his journey to Austin, Texas, where Rogan resides.
Rogan`s security team initiated contact with police upon discovering Johnson`s social media activity. The videos reportedly escalated from general threats to specifically showing Johnson had traveled to Austin with the declared purpose of fighting Joe Rogan.
The security personnel requested police intervention due to the increasing intensity of Johnson`s actions, expressing concern that he could potentially harm Joe Rogan or his family.
In the complaint, officers noted that their review of Johnson`s videos indicated signs of a possible mental health crisis, suggesting Brian Johnson might be a risk to himself or others.
One particular video highlighted by investigators showed Johnson shirtless and wearing a “fox headdress,” while holding what appeared to be two gold-plated short-barrel AR-15 style rifles. In this video, Johnson directly challenged Rogan, stating, “Joe Rogan, I’m calling you out, man to man, I’m picking a fight with you.”
Further analysis of Johnson`s videos confirmed he had driven approximately three hours from his home in Willis, Texas, to Austin, continuing to post threats against Rogan during his journey.
Law enforcement eventually contacted Joe Rogan directly, who confirmed his security team had made him aware of Johnson`s threats. Rogan stated he perceived Johnson`s actions and statements as threatening, which prompted him to file a police report.
Rogan informed police he had no prior contact with Johnson and was unaware of the social media influencer`s motive for targeting him.
The veteran commentator also conveyed to police that he had received information suggesting Brian Johnson might have a significant drug problem. Based on Johnson`s numerous Instagram posts directed at him, Rogan stated he believed Johnson was “significantly unstable and seems like he needs help.”
Consequently, based on the evidence gathered, police determined that Brian Johnson had committed the act of terroristic threat against Joe Rogan, leading to the filing of charges. Johnson was subsequently arrested but was later released on a $20,000 bond. His release conditions include a restraining order mandating he stay at least 200 yards away from Rogan, his family, residence, and places of business.
Johnson was also ordered to undergo a mental health evaluation within seven days of his release. His next scheduled court appearance is July 16.
