The criminal trial for a former WWE Superstar has now started. The 3-time WWE champion is now facing prosecution, as proceedings have begun.
Former WWE star Ted DiBiase Jr.’s trial has started
After a long time following the accusations, the criminal trial of Ted DiBiase Jr has now begun. Jury selection was completed yesterday for the star’s criminal trial. The trial has now begun with prosecutors giving their opening statement.
Jury selection has started in the federal trial of retired professional wrestling Theodore “Ted” DiBiase in Mississippi’s $94 million TANF welfare fraud case. pic.twitter.com/NI0JpSaoCN
— Ross Adams (@radamsWAPT) January 6, 2026
The third-generation star has been accused of conspiring to fraudulently get $3.5 million in federal funds. The money was originally set aside for families who are in need.
The prosecutors have alleged that the WWE star received funds originally intended for welfare programs by bringing sham contracts for services that were never provided.
Assistant US Attorney Jon Meynardie said in his opening statement that DiBiase wanted a lot of money so he could “fund his lavish lifestyle.” He said that DiBiase and his brother squeezed the former Department of Services Director in Mississippi to secure six contracts worth $2.9 million. The statement went on to say that the money was then used to buy cars and boats, go on vacation, and buy a $1.7 million house.
He said the brothers were young, handsome men who took advantage of the lonely, middle-aged Davis, who had few friends.
While the trial has just begun, it is expected to last for some time, as it will take at least three weeks.
The star’s defense lawyer has said something different
DiBiase has pleaded not guilty to the multiple charges brought against him.
The former champion’s lawyer said that his client was not the greedy conman as described by the prosecutors, and that lawyers had approved and signed off on the state contracts for DiBiase. He also said that Davis was a villain and not a mark.
