Regional Jet 200 ER/LR (CRJ200)
Flight Crew Air Transport Pilot (ATP)
Inflight Event / Encounter Wake Vortex Encounter
Flight Crew Regained Aircraft Control
Procedure; Environment - Non Weather Related
We were vectored onto final approach for a visual approach to [Runway] 22R at DTW. We joined the localizer 3 miles behind an MD 80 ahead of us. We were at the marker; just completed our Before Landing Check when we encountered two noticeable wake turbulence events. The aircraft remained on autopilot for the duration of the sequence of the wake turbulence encounters. After the second wake encounter; our plane entered one sudden and severe downward push. There was roll movement. Maximum bank angle was approximately 25 degrees during the sequence of events before and after the wake encounter; we were in smooth air. I called ATC and told them we encountered wake turbulence. The autopilot was disconnected and the aircraft was hand flown and we initiated a go-around. ATC caused this by too close spacing. Also the light tail wind at altitude was a major contribution.
CRJ-200 Captain reported wake turbulence encounter in trail of an MD80 on approach to DTW that resulted in a 25-degree roll and a 'sudden downward push'.