Tyler Muehl is 18 years old and lives in La Jolla, one of San Diego’s wealthiest neighborhoods. On the night of July 22, he approached a sea lion that was resting peacefully on a wall at La Jolla Cove, raised his fists as if he were about to box, and said his name was “Max Holloway”, referring to the UFC fighter.
He kicked it four times. Two direct blows to the animal’s head, while someone laughed in the background while recording everything. The video went viral within hours, and social media users were quick to describe him as a “spoiled rich kid”, a comment repeated by outraged users after learning the context of where the video was recorded.
San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria described the attack as a disgusting act of animal cruelty. This week, Muehl pleaded guilty to violating the Marine Mammal Protection Act. He faces up to one year in prison and a fine of 100,000 dollars. Sentencing will take place on October 20, 2026.
La Jolla Teen Pleads Guilty to Harassing La Jolla Sea Lion https://t.co/3kKTix8WUt The attached video was admitted as Exhibit A to the plea agreement and shows the defendant repeatedly kicking at the sea lion in La Jolla Cove. pic.twitter.com/t5zXepghQ5
— US Attorney CAS (@SDCAnews) August 13, 2026