Following a stunning performance at Kasai 5 in which he submitted Felipe Pena with a heel hook and earned second place, Aaron “Tex” Johnson has announced via Instagram that he’ll be taking a break from training and competing to attend drug rehab in orlando fl.
“I’m leaving New York for a month and will be checking into rehab in New Mexico. I will be spending time with my wife and getting my mind better for a return to competition. Thank you everyone for all the amazing support. I will miss everyone very much. I will probably shutdown my Instagram during this time.”
Johnson’s announcement has been met with encouraging responses from his fans. The three-time No-Gi Pans champion and ADCC qualifier seems to be looking at this step in a positive light and seemed to even share a bit of humor about it by including Kang 420’s song “Drinking Problem” in his story about the development.
“I leave for White Sands rehab tomorrow. I love my family @unityjiujitsu . When I come back for adcc don’t forget its not a come back it’s a crowning of the next king.”
Johnson was originally scheduled to compete against Gutemberg Pereira for the heavyweight black belt gi title at Fight 2 Win 108 on April 12. F2W CEO Seth Daniels has confirmed with the Jiu-Jitsu Times that Johnson will not be replaced by another challenger against Pereira, and the match will instead be canceled entirely.
We applaud Johnson for taking this step towards a better future for himself. If you believe you are struggling with substance abuse or addiction, call the Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).
