Jimmy James Johnson, the man who allegedly initiated the Vibe Awards melee on November 15 by attacking rap/hip-hop producer Dr. Dre, pleaded not guilty to assault at his arraignment Monday in Los Angeles.

Johnson, whom authorities believe punched Dr. Dre in the face after the producer refused to sign an autograph, remains in custody on a parole violation. He is due back in court January 26th, when a date for a preliminary hearing will be set.

Meanwhile, G-Unit rap member Young Buck, who has been charged with assault with a deadly weapon for allegedly stabbing Johnson, will be arraigned on Friday .

The G-Unit rapper, whose real name is David Darnell Brown, faces up to eight years in prison if convicted, according to Deputy District Attorney Hamid Towfigh.

Lt. Frank Fabrega of the Santa Monica Police Department said investigators are still attempting to identify two other men seen brandishing knives in videotape of the incident.

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