In mid-2025, tensions between social media personality Brian Johnson—better known as the “Liver King”—and Joe Rogan erupted into a headline-grabbing controversy that led to Johnson’s arrest and public scrutiny.
The drama began when Johnson posted a series of bizarre and aggressive videos on social media, dressed in a wolf pelt and brandishing golden props while challenging Rogan to a physical fight. In the videos, Johnson claimed he had no formal martial arts training but wanted to confront Rogan “man to man.” His tone was provocative, and the videos were interpreted by many as threatening.
Joe Rogan, who had never met Johnson personally, reportedly found the behavior alarming and notified local authorities in Austin, Texas. Police responded quickly and arrested Johnson at a hotel, charging him with making a terroristic threat—a misdemeanor under Texas law. As part of his release conditions, Johnson was ordered to undergo a mental health evaluation and was placed under a restraining order that barred him from contacting Rogan.
The background of the conflict appears rooted in Johnson’s earlier attempts to be featured on “The Joe Rogan Experience.” After publicly admitting to using steroids—contradicting his long-time “ancestral living” and all-natural branding—Johnson sought an opportunity to appear on Rogan’s podcast to explain himself. Rogan, a vocal critic of Johnson’s misleading persona, declined the request and openly condemned Johnson’s actions.
After his release, Liver King returned to social media, continuing to post cryptic and defiant messages. He described the legal situation as a “gift” and implied that his dispute with Rogan was not yet over. Rogan, for his part, has largely stayed silent on the matter since the arrest.
The episode has highlighted the risks of social media fame, the power of public perception, and the consequences that can arise when online personas cross legal and personal boundaries.
