WWE Hall of Famer Ted DiBiase Sr. has filed a defamation lawsuit against Mississippi State Auditor Shad White, alleging he was falsely linked to the state’s welfare spending scandal.
As reported by Darkhorse Press, the lawsuit was filed in Hinds County Circuit Court in August 2025, with White served on November 19. Ted DiBiase claims White made damaging and inaccurate statements about him in the 2024 book Mississippi Swindle: Brett Favre and the Welfare Scandal that Shocked America, which chronicles the alleged misuse of Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) funds.
The complaint lists White in his individual capacity rather than as State Auditor. DiBiase argues White used his platform for “personal and political gain” by implying that DiBiase was culpable in the scandal. DiBiase denies any wrongdoing and notes that no court has ruled him liable in any related civil case.
The filing states that the claims hurt DiBiase’s reputation and contributed to the closure of his non-profit, Heart of David Ministries, in early 2025. The Mississippi Department of Human Services filed separate civil action against the ministry in 2022, alleging it received more than $1.7 million in improper transfers.
DiBiase is seeking compensatory and punitive damages, along with a temporary restraining order and injunction to stop further publication and distribution of the book. His legal team argues that continued sales could cause reputational harm and influence future jury proceedings.
How Has Shad White Responded To Ted DiBiase’s Defamation Suit?
White has filed a motion to dismiss the case, asserting he is protected by “absolute privilege” for statements made in his official role.
The filing also claims Ted DiBiase is attempting an unconstitutional “prior restraint” on speech under the First Amendment and argues DiBiase, as a public figure, cannot show the statements were made with actual malice.
