BJ Penn, UFC Hall of Famer and one of MMA’s most legendary fighters, has revealed that he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease.

The admission came in a recent social media outburst, adding another layer to what has already been a difficult chapter of his life since retiring from competition.

Penn’s career ended on a brutal skid, losing seven straight fights over nearly a decade before leaving MMA behind.
His troubles didn’t stop there – he has faced multiple legal issues ranging from bar brawls to DUI arrests, and even allegations of domestic abuse from former partners.

His post-retirement years have also been marked by increasingly erratic beliefs.

Early on, Penn publicly denied evolution and claimed dinosaurs never existed.
But his posts have since taken a darker turn, with Penn alleging that family members and public figures had been replaced by imposters wearing masks.

Earlier this year, he was arrested on charges of “Abuse family or household member: offensive physical contact”, which reportedly stemmed directly from these beliefs.

When the details of that case emerged, speculation arose that Penn might be suffering from a neurological or psychiatric disorder such as Capgras Syndrome.
Now, with Penn’s revelation that he was previously diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease, those theories carry more weight.

Capgras Syndrome is a rare but documented symptom of advanced Parkinson’s, and Penn specifically mentioned being prescribed a drug used to treat the condition.
That drug is also closely associated with CTE, a disease long linked to combat sports athletes.

There’s a lot going on here pic.twitter.com/RjhdrBZrAs

— Borrachinha Depot (@FullContactMTWF) August 30, 2025

Sloth Jiu-Jitsu: The Ultimate Guide for Calmly Beating Bigger, Younger Opponents

💥 What if slowing down was the fastest way to win? 💭 Tired of Getting Smashed by Younger, Stronger Grapplers? It’s not your age. It’s your strategy. If you’re a passionate grappler over 35 who’s sick of getting outpaced, outmuscled, or out-cardio’d by opponents half your age — this 120 page e-book was made for you. 🔓 Unlock the Power of Sloth Jiu-Jitsu:

Build Sustainable Strength—Without Wrecking Your Joints, Energy, or Jiu-Jitsu

Tired of waking up sore and burnt out after lifting? Sloth Strength is a proven blueprint for grapplers over 35 who want to get stronger—without the pain, burnout, or injuries.

Developed from 25 years on the mats, this no-burnout approach is made specifically for BJJ athletes in their 30s, 40s, and beyond.