Influencer Liver King Detained Following Joe Rogan Threats

Brian Johnson, widely recognized by his online persona 'Liver King,' was taken into custody on Tuesday night at the Four Seasons Hotel in Austin. His arrest came after he issued threats via social media directed at well-known podcast host Joe Rogan.

Authorities from the Austin Police Department apprehended Johnson at approximately 6 p.m. The arrest followed after Johnson posted a video in which he called out Rogan for a physical confrontation.

In the Instagram video shared on Monday, Johnson can be heard provoking Rogan, saying, 'I’m ready to challenge you to a duel.'

Despite lacking formal training in combat sports, Johnson extended the challenge to Rogan, a skilled practitioner of Brazilian Jiu-jitsu, suggesting he was prepared to engage whenever Rogan deemed fit.

According to a police statement, detectives scrutinized Johnson's online posts, noticing he was en route to Austin while making persistent threats. Rogan, who confirmed he had no prior interactions with Johnson, perceived the postings as menacing. Consequently, detectives secured a warrant for Johnson's arrest on charges of issuing terroristic threats.

Johnson's Instagram footage captures moments leading up to his capture, showing him anxiously moving around his hotel room, referencing both his possible prison sentence and an impending fight with Rogan. The video also depicts police conducting a search and eventually escorting him in handcuffs to a police vehicle.

Known for his muscular build and advocacy of a raw meat diet, Johnson now faces charges of terroristic threats, classified as a Class B misdemeanor. As the inquiry continues, he remains in the custody of Travis County Jail. The Austin Police briefed that the investigation is ongoing and no further comments were provided.

Johnson's arrest comes as yet another controversial episode following an earlier debacle in December 2022, when he confessed to misleading his audience about his steroid usage.

Johnson, who is 47 years of age, claimed his impressive physique was the result of an 'ancestry-based lifestyle,' which involved adhering to nine specific principles and consuming raw meats.

Medical professionals have long voiced concerns over Johnson’s methods. Dr. Harrison Pope, affiliated with Harvard Medical School, commented in 2023 on such behavior.

Dr. Pope noted, 'An individual might spend extensive time in strength training, meticulously manage nutrition, continuously observe their reflection, and refrain from public exposure without clothing coverage,' as mentioned during a segment on 'Impact x Nightline.'

Additionally, the promotion of raw meat consumption has alarmed doctors, who warn about the likelihood of bacterial infections.

Since its release in December 2022, Johnson's public admission of using steroids has amassed over four million views, further complicating his legal standing and amplifying dissent from his erstwhile support base.