The example of the OP also reminded me of Max Howell, but the only other similar story was the one of the guy who was prompted to implement fizzbuzz, and attempted to do so in Tensorflow[0]. In the latter case, I can totally understand that he might've been turned down with such a cocky (though funny) attitude, if the anecdote is true.

Are there other notable cases of people who got turned down in spite of - or because of - their extensive knowledge in a case like this?

[0] https://joelgrus.com/2016/05/23/fizz-buzz-in-tensorflow/