Former WWE star Ted DiBiase Jr. faces 45-year sentence in federal fraud case

Ted DiBiase Jr., son of wrestling legend “The Million Dollar Man” Ted DiBiase Sr., is set to stand trial in August 2025 in what is being called one of Mississippi’s largest public corruption cases. The former WWE performer is accused of misappropriating millions of dollars meant for low-income families as part of a federal welfare fraud scandal.DiBiase was arrested in April 2023 and faces a mountain of charges, including conspiracy to commit wire fraud, theft concerning programs receiving federal funds, six counts of wire fraud, and four counts of money laundering. If convicted, he could serve up to 45 years in prison and be fined up to $1 million.Jury selection is scheduled to begin on August 19, with the trial kicking off a week later on August 26 in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Mississippi. Deadlines for pre-trial motions and expert witness submissions have also been set, indicating that both prosecution and defense are preparing for a lengthy courtroom battle.According to court documents, DiBiase allegedly conspired with several others - including former Mississippi Department of Human Services Director John Davis, to funnel federal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) funds into two companies he controlled: Priceless Ventures LLC and Familiae Orientem LLC.Prosecutors claim DiBiase received over $2 million in government funds through sham contracts for services such as “leadership training” and “emergency food assistance assessments” - services that were allegedly never delivered. Instead, the funds were reportedly used to fund a luxurious lifestyle, including the purchase of a house, boat, and vehicle.One standout allegation involves DiBiase using over $400,000 in welfare funds to help purchase a home in Madison, Mississippi. Though he and his wife later agreed to forfeit the property, the legal process surrounding it remains ongoing.Outside the courtroom, DiBiase has maintained his innocence. When approached by reporters, he simply said, “Jesus loves you, brother. God bless you.” His lawyer, meanwhile, has argued that DiBiase tested positive for marijuana and Adderall at the time of his arrest due to legal CBD products and an ADHD condition, despite not having a valid prescription.With the trial just months away, this case remains one of the most closely watched legal battles involving a high-profile wrestling figure. The charges against DiBiase have not only captured the attention of wrestling fans, but also drawn national interest due to the staggering amount of money allegedly diverted from programs meant to help Mississippi’s most vulnerable citizens. Legal experts believe the trial could serve as a landmark case in highlighting the failures of state oversight and the potential for abuse when millions in federal welfare funds go unchecked.