[
Ted DiBiase Jr. is looking to slow down proceedings in his upcoming federal trial, arguing that new video footage might significantly alter the outcome.
The former WWE star is scheduled to appear in court on August 19 to address his purported involvement in a significant welfare fraud case in Mississippi’s Southern District Court. However, his legal team filed a motion on July 2 requesting a postponement of the trial due to what they claim is a near abandonment of the case by federal prosecutors. They argue that 48 hours of video evidence could establish his innocence.
“These 72 videos demonstrate direct engagement,” his lawyer stated in the filing. “The claims allege that DiBiase failed to provide social services and had no intention of doing so, which is contradicted by the extensive video evidence recently provided by the U.S. government.”
The footage reportedly includes training sessions from the Mississippi Department of Human Services that challenge the prosecutors’ assertion that he has not delivered legitimate services as outlined in his contract.
DiBiase’s defense team claims they have been inundated with unrelated evidence for over two years, with “95%” of the material being irrelevant to his case. They contend that with this new footage emerging just 60 days before the trial, they require additional time to review the evidence and strengthen their defense.
Facing multiple federal charges related to the Mississippi welfare scandal, including wire fraud, theft from federal programs, and money laundering, DiBiase risks up to 45 years in prison and a million-dollar fine if found guilty of all counts.
The court has yet to rule on the request for a delay. Ringside News will keep providing updates as more information becomes available.
Fan Take: This situation is significant for wrestling fans as it highlights the personal struggles of a beloved figure in the wrestling community. The outcome of this trial could not only impact DiBiase’s legacy but also alter perceptions of the sport itself amidst ongoing issues of integrity and responsibility.
