News Summary
A.J. Johnson achieved victory at the NHRA Thunder Valley Celebrity Drag Challenge in Bristol, Tennessee, showcasing his transition from professional football to drag racing. He outpaced defending champion Sean Embree in an exciting event leading up to the Super Grip NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals. As motorsport fans anticipate the upcoming race, the challenge highlights the growing enthusiasm for high-powered vehicle competitions at Bristol Dragway.
Bristol, Tennessee
A.J. Johnson, an accomplished professional football player, triumphed at the NHRA Thunder Valley Celebrity Drag Challenge held on May 21, 2025, in Bristol, Tennessee. Johnson secured the victory by outpacing defending champion Sean Embree, showcasing his skills in a thrilling competition that drew a crowd of motorsport enthusiasts.
The annual Celebrity Drag Challenge serves as a prelude to the Super Grip NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals, set to take place from June 6-8, 2025, at the Bristol Dragway. This prestigious event will feature top competitors from the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series, including a series of exciting races across various classes of high-powered vehicles.
Notably, the Thunder Valley Nationals will showcase the monstrous 12,000-horsepower nitro-burning machines, with some capable of exceeding speeds of 330 mph. Competition will include multiple qualifying sessions on Friday, June 6, leading into eliminations scheduled for Sunday, June 8. Additionally, fans can engage in autograph sessions, enjoy fireworks, and participate in a variety of interactive activities designed to enhance the motorsports experience.
A.J. Johnson’s Athletic Background
A.J. Johnson, who earned recognition as an All-SEC linebacker during his time at the University of Tennessee from 2011 to 2014, transitioned into a professional football career playing for the Denver Broncos from 2018 to 2021. His unexpected shift from football to drag racing highlights the versatility and competitive spirit that have defined his athletic journey.
Four-time NHRA Funny Car champion Matt Hagan participated in the event as a coach, providing guidance to the celebrity contestants while promoting the upcoming Thunder Valley Nationals. Currently positioned fourth in the NHRA Funny Car points standings, Hagan aims to gain momentum in his season, especially as he reflects on his victory at Bristol Dragway in 2015.
The Super Grip NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals promises intense competition across several classes. The Top Fuel division is particularly noteworthy, with current points leader Shawn Langdon and legendary racers like Tony Stewart and Antron Brown participating. The Funny Car class will also see fierce competition, highlighted by current points leader Austin Prock, who has displayed dominance throughout 2024, securing multiple event wins.
In the Pro Stock and Pro Stock Motorcycle categories, fans can anticipate thrilling races with multiple past champions looking to reclaim their titles. Notable past winners in the Bristol race include Tony Schumacher in Top Fuel, Austin Prock in Funny Car, Jeg Coughlin in Pro Stock, and Gaige Herrera in Pro Stock Motorcycle.
The NHRA Thunder Valley Celebrity Drag Challenge, with A.J. Johnson’s recent win, has set a vibrant stage for the upcoming Super Grip NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals. As motorsport fans eagerly await the championship races, the excitement surrounding Bristol Dragway continues to build, promising an exhilarating experience for all attendees.
This event, part of an ongoing series of significant motorsports activities at Bristol Dragway and Bristol Motor Speedway throughout 2025, reflects the growing interest and diverse participation in drag racing, attracting various audiences eager to witness high-octane competitions.
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HERE Resources
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Additional Resources
- Drag Illustrated
- Wikipedia: Bristol Dragway
- Speedway Media
- Google Search: NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals
- BVM Sports
- Google Scholar: NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals
- Competition Plus
- Encyclopedia Britannica: NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals
- WCYB
- Google News: NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals
