After completing his undergraduate studies, Otunga worked as a laboratory manager at Columbia University. He later pursued a legal education, graduating from Harvard Law School. Following his time at Harvard, he began working as an attorney at the prestigious law firm Sidley Austin LLP.

Transition to Entertainment and Wrestling

From a young age, Otunga had a strong interest in the entertainment industry. His acting debut came in 2007 as a contestant on the reality television show I Love New York 2, where he reached the finals. He later appeared in the 2013 thriller film The Call and made a brief appearance on the soap opera General Hospital.

His passion for performance eventually led him to professional wrestling. In 2008, Otunga signed a developmental contract with World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) and began training with Florida Championship Wrestling (FCW). Adopting the ring name Dawson Alexander, he made his in-ring debut in 2009 in a tag team match.

WWE Career and The Nexus

Otunga's wrestling career gained momentum in 2010 with appearances on both WWE Raw and SmackDown. That same year, he joined the first season of NXT, winning his debut match against Darren Young. He later became a founding member of the faction The Nexus, which gained notoriety by feuding with top WWE stars, including John Cena.

During 2011, Otunga briefly teamed with John Cena for a WWE Tag Team Championship match. After taking a hiatus in March 2011, he returned to the scene later during the WWE Championship storyline. He continued to appear both in the ring and in supporting roles in subsequent WWE storylines.