Big Island Mayor Billy Kenoi today proclaimed “BJ Penn Day” in Hawaii County as he bid good luck to the Hilo mixed martial arts fighter, who is on his way to prepare for the defense of his Ultimate Fighting Championship world lightweight title.

Penn left to begin serious training this week in Orange County, Calif., for his Dec. 12 title defense in Memphis, Tenn.
Kenoi lauded Penn as a “positive role model and mentor to youth in our community” at the fighter’s Kino‘ole Street gym.
“BJ Penn has the full support and backing of a legion of Big Island family, friends and fans whose cheers should be loud enough to hear in Memphis on December 12,” Kenoi said.

Penn and his family reside in Hilo where he operates his mixed martial arts-related business ventures. Penn also delivers anti-drug and anti-violence messages to Big Island youth.

Penn is the No. 1 ranked lightweight mixed martial arts fighter in the world and currently holds the UFC lightweight title.