Ted DiBiase Jr.’s federal trial formally started on January 7, 2026, with a seated jury and opening statements—however the former WWE star is already making headlines for what he didn’t say.
As revealed by footage captured outdoors the courthouse following day one among proceedings, DiBiase declined to reply questions from reporters urgent him on the trial’s early moments and the accusations towards him. When requested, “How do you suppose the primary day at trial went?” and “Do you are taking exception to individuals calling you a grasping conman who manipulated individuals?” DiBiase stated nothing and walked off in silence, refusing to interact.
In line with WJTV, the courtroom noticed the introduction of key proof—together with a big quantity of video footage DiBiase’s protection claims instantly contradicts the prosecution’s narrative. The federal government alleges DiBiase stole tens of millions in federal welfare funds meant for low-income households, funneling the cash by means of shell firms and utilizing it on private gadgets like a ship, house, and car.
Nonetheless, DiBiase’s authorized staff insists that greater than 47 hours of newly produced video reveals him conducting actual coaching periods underneath the contracts in query—disputing the indictment’s declare that he by no means supposed to offer companies.
“The indictment states that DiBiase didn’t present and didn’t intend to offer social companies. That is belied by copious video footage that the USA simply produced,” the protection beforehand said in a profitable movement to delay the trial.
DiBiase faces 13 federal costs—together with conspiracy, wire fraud, theft regarding federal packages, and cash laundering—and as much as 45 years in jail if convicted on all counts. The trial is predicted to final a minimum of three weeks.
What do you make of Ted DiBiase Jr.’s silence outdoors courtroom and the explosive video proof now at play? Share your ideas within the feedback beneath.