Former Tennessee LB A.J. Johnson was an All-SEC linebacker in 2013, but his college career was ended prematurely when he was suspended in 2014 for a suspected rape.

In fact, that case is still going on, with Johnson facing a July 16 trial date next year as the court system continues to try to make sure justice is served one way or the other.

However, while awaiting that trial, apparently Johnson has embarked on a new career. As you can see below, Johnson will make his MMA debut against C.J. Baker on Jan. 6 in Knoxville:

https://twitter.com/valorfights/status/941385772812328960

It’s only an amateur heavyweight bout, but this is how MMA careers get started.

If Johnson finds success, he wouldn’t be the first former SEC linebacker to successfully transition to mixed martial arts.

Ex-Alabama LB Eryk Anders is now fighting in the UFC ranks after bursting onto the fighting scene a couple of years ago.

Of course, Johnson’s court case could put a quick end to his MMA career, but it will be interesting to see how he fares in his debut in January.