Former UFC champion BJ Penn appeared in Hilo Circuit Court on Friday, one day after failing to appear for a mandatory mental health evaluation. The 47-year-old mixed martial arts icon used the hearing to formally request new legal representation and seek removal of the judge overseeing his case.
Penn faces charges including alleged family incidents, refusing to comply with a police officer and violating a restraining order. The court appearance followed his failure to attend a scheduled mental fitness examination on Thursday, raising concerns about his compliance with court directives.
During the proceedings, Penn expressed frustration with his attempts to communicate with the court system regarding changes in both counsel and judicial oversight.
“Your honor, I hear what you’re saying. I’ve been trying to get in touch with, I tried to contact your chambers because I mentioned the last time I was here about recusing you from the case and about getting different counsel. But I can’t get through. I can’t get through to you.”
Hilo Circuit Court Judge Peter Kubota advised Penn to follow proper channels by discussing his concerns with his current attorney, Alan Komagome, whom the judge had personally appointed to represent the former MMA star.
“If there’s a substantial reason why you believe you should have new counsel instead of Mr. Komagome, I appointed him because he’s a very good attorney and he takes care of you and your best interest, but you talk it over with him. If you really feel like he cannot adequately represent you, he’ll bring it to my attention and we can have a separate hearing on that.”
The judge’s response indicates the court will consider Penn’s request for new representation but only through appropriate legal procedures rather than direct appeals during standard hearings.
Penn’s missed mental health examination has been rescheduled for January 15, giving the former champion another opportunity to comply with court requirements. His next court appearance is set for the morning of March 2, when the judge is expected to address both his motion for new counsel and his request for judicial recusal.
The case continues to draw attention as Penn, once regarded as one of the most accomplished MMA stars in UFC history, navigates the legal system while facing serious charges tied to domestic matters and law enforcement interactions.
