Sikeston, Missouri - Christmas, a season of hope, can also bring challenges for many. It's not uncommon for people to experience loneliness, depressions, financial strain, loss of loved ones, childhood scars, among others. In December, First United Methodist Church of Sikeston, Missouri will begin its new message series, “Wrestling with Christmas” with a special guest who is a professional wrestling legend from the WWE.
Ted DiBiase, known in wrestling circles as the Million Dollar Man, will be at First UMC at 11am, this Sunday, Dec. 2, to share his encouraging story of his experiences as a wrestler and his faith. There is no charge.
A retired professional wrestler, manager, pastor, and color commentator, DiBiase achieved championship success in several wrestling promotions and holds 30 titles. He was named King of the Ring in 1988 and was the first WWF North American Heavyweight Champion, among others. He was inducted into the World Wrestling Entertainment Hall of Fame in 2010.
“God had allowed me to climb to the top – my life was made into action figures; I wrestled in front of 80,000 people. Yet, I was still not satisfied. I was trying to fill this void in my life, like so many others have done in the entertainment world,” says DiBiase. “But the thing that’s almost unbelievable about God is His grace and mercy. We fail all the time, but there’s no shame in failing – only in not getting up and keeping on.”
DiBiase has been involved in the world of professional wrestling almost his entire life. His stepfather, wrestler "Iron Mike" DiBiase died in the ring when Ted was 15. His mother then slipped into depression and turned to alcohol and he moved to Arizona to live with his grandparents. He made his wrestling debut in 1974.
After moving to Atlanta to continue his wrestling career, he met his future wife Melanie. They were married in 1981. His website states that his wrestling kept him away from her, while ego, pride, and money took center stage.
The World Wrestling Federation (WWF) finally took notice. They had an idea for a new character and developed DiBiase into the "Million Dollar Man," surrounding him by money, limousines and life in the fast lane. He was known for a trademark evil laugh and his signature move called the Million Dollar Dream. Through hard work and determination he quickly rose to the top of his profession where he has remained for the 20 years. Due to a neck injury, DiBiase was forced to give up the physical side of professional wrestling. He acted as a ringside manager in both the WWE (Andre the Giant, Steve Austin) and WCW (Steiner Brothers). He has also appeared on TV wrestling programs and acted as creative consultant for a video game.
In 1999, DiBiase took on new roles outside of professional wrestling. He is a spokesperson for the Sunshine Foundation, an organization that grants wishes for critically ill children, and founded Heart of David Ministries, for which he travels the world. Also through Heart of David Ministries, DeBiase speaks out against drug and alcohol abuse. He has a strong message for "macho men" and struggling married couples. He is author of Every Man Has His Price, a part auto-biography and part-Christian testimony.
Don’t miss this opportunity to hear a world champion wrestler. The congregation of First United Methodist welcomes all to attend this free event. First UMC is located at 1307 North Main, Sikeston, Missouri. For more information visit thefunchurch.org or call 573.421.1824.
For more info contact Brad Aycock, 573.421.1824
