On the latest “Everybody’s Got a Pod” podcast, WWE Hall of Famer Ted DiBiase discussed his run with IRS (Mike Rotundo) as Money, Inc. The team formed in early 1992.
DiBiase on why his match with IRS against The Legion of Doom at SummerSlam ‘92 at Wembley Stadium went on early:
“Poor Joe (Animal) was responsible and had to be responsible for Mike (Hawk). We went on second because Joe realized Mike had taken something. He went to Vince and said, ‘I don’t know if he’ll be conscious by the time we get to our match.’ Mike had a serious drug problem.”
DiBiase was asked if Hawk was under the influence when he went into the ring for that match:
“Well, yea, but it kind of like it hadn’t really had the opportunity to take effect. That’s why Joe went to Vince and said, ‘He might not be functioning well.’ Rightfully so, it pissed Vince off and that’s why we went on second.”
It was reported that Hawk disappeared after the show, didn’t fly back with everyone else, and didn’t show up for television leaving no word with anybody. Hawk was suspended for six weeks, which led to Hawk quitting the promotion.
DiBiase responded: “I’m sorry, but Mike was being a big baby. I mean, again, I felt sorry for Joe, for Animal. Here’s a guy who’s trying to do it right and he’s got a partner who basically is a nice guy but he doesn’t have both his oars in the water. Again, when you’re somebody dealing with a drug addiction, you got to get rid of it. You got to make a choice. It’s either the drugs or your career.”
If you use any portion of the quotes from this article please credit Everybody’s Got a Pod with Ted DiBiase with a h/t to WrestlingNews.co for the transcription.
