ECW Recap 02.16.10 - Final Episode

ECW recap from Kansas City, MO:

Tonight's episode of ECW on SyFy marked the final show for the ECW brand, as it will transition into the new TV show "WWE NXT". The show opened with an "ECW is over" style promo vide highlighting tonight's main event: Christian defending the ECW title under Extreme Rules against Ezekiel Jackson. They rolled the ECW opening video for the final time, then the pyro went off before Josh Matthews and Byron Saxton were on hand to commentate. Next week WWE NXT will premiere, and tonight they'll introduce the cast of the show.

Yoshi Tatsu & Goldust vs. The MizShow
Unified Tag team title match

They showed highlights of how Miz and Show won their titles from DX in a Triple Threat match on Raw. In the late stages of this match, Yoshi made the stretch towards Goldust for a tag and got it. Goldie came in on fire as he leveled Miz several times, then dropped down to punch him in the face. An atomic drop and face first plant to the mat were next. He had a nearfall after a powerslam, but Big Show started to get into the ring. Yoshi Tatsu rushed over and Show pushed him over the ropes to the floor. Goldust climbed on the corner to work on Miz. The ref directed his attention to check on Yoshi out of the ring, allowing Show to walk over on the apron and punch Goldust in the stomach. Miz followed it up with a Skullcrushing finale for the win.

Winners: The MizShow wins via pinfall to retain the Unified Tag Team titles.

Byron Saxton and Josh Matthews discussed the theme of WWE NXT, where 8 wrestling rookies will be guided by 8 wrestling pros in a reality style show. They show pictures of two of the rookies. Pro Chris Jericho will mentor/guide rookie Wade Barrett. Matt Hardy will mentor Justin Gabriel.

ECW GM Tiffany was on hand backstage to address the WWE Universe. She said as one era comes to a close, a new exciting one begins with WWE NXT. She started talking more about it, but suddenly Zack Ryder and Rosa Mendes showed up. Ryder complained that he's not part of the main event. Tiffany said he lost to Christian last week. Rosa started yelling at Tiffany in Spanish, but the GM said it doesn't matter what language, the answer's still no. Ryder said since the main event is Extreme Rules, he can make his presence felt and nobody can stop him.

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ECW returned with another preview of who will be on the new WWE NXT show. Raw superstar MVP will be mentoring a newcomer named Skip Sheffield.

Tony Atlas was in the ring with Abraham Washington to introduce him to the crowd. Leather furniture was set up in the ring for the final show on ECW. Washington referred to their location as St Louis, setting the crowd into a chorus of boos. Washington said that since ECW is ending tonight he becomes a free agent, meaning he's rich. He said Raw and Smackdown will have to open up the bank accounts to try to get him. Atlas kept laughing the whole time.

Washington said he went to Vince McMahon and asked for the biggest star in the company for the final show. Abe introduced his guest, the biggest name in sports entertainment, "Abraham Washington". Washington started to interview himself, when Shelton Benjamin's music came on. The Gold Standard came down to the ring with Atlas laughing about it. Shelton said his show has been unwatchable overall, so what would make him think anyone wants to watch it when Abe is his own guest. Shelton reminded Abe that everyone is a free agent as of the end of ECW. Just then, Vance Archer came out from backstage and arrived to the ring to get in Shelton's face.

Archer told Shelton he better not be on the same show as him, or else he won't have a future. Just then, Croft and Barreta came out to interrupt, saying nobody cares about the guys in the ring, but they care about where the 2010 Slammy award winning team of the year Croft and Barreta is going to be. Vladimir Kozlov came out next and began to speak in Russian. Vance Archer got up in his face saying nobody understands him. Archer shoved Kozlov, so Kozlov responded by boot kicking him down. Atlas and Abe exited the ring, so Kozlov and Benjamin cleaned up Croft and Barreta tossing them from the ring. Washington kept complaining outside the ring about his rented furniture. The two superstars looked at each other, shook and hugged before posing from the ring corners.

Carlito will guide Michael Tarver, a knockout specialist on the WWE NXT show. His dad was a sparring partner for Mike Tyson.

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Upon ECW's return, they noted that The Miz will be mentoring rookie Daniel Bryan on WWE NXT which premieres next Tuesday on SyFy.

They rolled the Elimination Chamber promotional video as part of the "Road to Wrestlemania". Various superstars were shown in the barbaric chamber, including Rey Mysterio, MVP, Undertaker, Great Khali, Edge, Chris Jericho, HHH and Cena.

Christian will be on WWE NXT to mentor rookie Heath Slater, a "walking rock band without the instruments".

The ECW Champion came out first, wheeling a shopping cart full of weapons such as trash cans, crutches and kendo sticks. Christian got on the mic for a closing speech. He said he debuted on ECW a year ago, with some people viewing it as a demotion for him. Christian said ECW feels like home to him, because it gave him a chance to shine. ECW noted he's glad he got to fight an all-time legend and friend in Tommy Dreamer, and he got to mentor a rising star like Yoshi Tatsu. Christian said tonight ECW goes away forever, but he'll always be proud to say he was the very last ECW Champion.

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Pro wrestler CM Punk will be mentoring rookie Darren Young on WWE NXT, next week on SyFy.

Ezekiel Jackson vs. Christian
ECW Title Extreme Rules match

Jackson shoved Christian down to start it off, but not much later, Christian tossed Jackson to the outside. As Christian went out, Jackson began to attack. He tossed Christian back in, then threw several objects in as well. As Jackson got on the apron, Christian came back to punch away at him. Jackson was barely hanging onto the top rope, so Christian grabbed a Kendo stick and smashed it on Jackson's hand, causing him to fall to the floor. Just then, Zack Ryder rushed into the ring and began attacking Christian. He picked up a trash can and went at Christian, but Christian flapjacked Ryder onto the trash can then tossed him out of the ring. Rosa got in and began to yell in Christian's face, then slapped the champ. Christian turned to the corner and didn't know what to do, but suddenly ECW's GM Tiffany came charging down the ramp in her skirt and bare feet. She tackled Rosa in the ring and threw her to the side. Rosa escaped the ring, and Tiffany screamed at Ryder/Rosa to leave ringside immediately. ECW headed to its final commercial break.

When the show returned, Jackson had control in the ring as he hammered away on the champ. He whipped Christian to the corner, but got an elbow to the face when he charged. Christian went to the top corner, but Jackson shoved him off to the floor. Regal was at ringside, but really hadn't played a part yet. Jackson smashed Christian face first into the steps, then tried to smash a trash can on him. Christian moved away, then dropkicked the trash can into Jackson. As Christian came back to Jackson, Zeke shoved him into the steps.

Jackson tossed all of the items out of the shopping cart into the ring, then tried to ram the cart into Christian near the steps. Christian moved away, but moments later, Zeke grabbed him and threw Christian into the cart. Back in the ring, Zeke seemed to have control, but Christian made a brief comeback. Christian went at Jackson with a trash can, but Jackson flattened him. Jackson had a near fall, then he and Regal went to the outside to grab a table from under the ring. Christian got to his feet and dropkicked the tablge int oboth guys on the outside.

In the closing moments, Jackson tried to superplex Christian onto the set up table in the ring. Christian countered and tried to DDT Jackson onto it, but both men landed across from each other on opposite sides of the table. Christian used a Kendo stick on Jackson, then chased Regal away from ringside. Christian got back in the ring and smashed Jackson in the leg with the Kendo stick before Jackson could hit Christian with it. Christian was in control, but Regal showed up back in the ring. Christian dealt with Regal by using the Killswitch on him. Unfortunately, Jackson grabbed Christian and one arm slammed him through the table for the winning pinfall. Jackson is the new and final ECW Champion.

Winner: Ezekiel Jackson wins via pinfall in the Extreme Rules match over Christian to become the new ECW Champion.

Saxton and Matthews showed the final cast members of WWE NXT, R-Truth will mentor a rookie named David Otunga. WWE NXT premieres in the same time slot as ECW on SyFy next Tuesday night.

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ECW Recap 02.09.10

ECW Recap from Baton Rouge, LA:

The superstars of ECW were assembled in a backstage meeting with ECW GM Tiffany at a podium. Tiffany reminded them that in 2 weeks time ECW will be going off the air. Tiffany said that means everyone will be free agents able to sign with whatever brand they want. Tiffany said they will all have the opportunity to be part of WWE NXT too. Abraham Washington blurted out "Yeah, I'm gettin' paid!" Tiffany said the next two weeks are an opportunity to make a name for themselves. She encouraged everyone to seize the moment and have fun. Tiffany then put on some Mardi Gras beads and picked up a drink saying she was going to celebrate. Zack Ryder and Rosa immediately got up to ask her if she was just going to part when ECW is leaving the air soon. Tiffany told him "Woo woo woo, you know it", leaving Ryder and Rosa looking mad.

Josh Matthews and Byron Saxton were on hand for commentary of the show, with tonight's main event Shelton Benjamin versus Vance Archer in a no countout, no DQ match.

Goldust & Yoshi Tatsu vs. Croft & Barreta
For Unified Tag title match

The winners of this match get a unified tag team title match on the final ECW next week, against The Miz and Big Show. They showed highlights of DX losing to Miz and Show on last night's Raw.

Late in the match, Goldust managed to make a hot tag to Yoshi. Yoshi came in to knock down Croft multiple times. He climbed to the corner for a high risk move to hit Croft with a near fall, but Barreta was in to break it up. Goldust rushed in to hit Barreta with a facebuster to the mat, then the two went to the outside. Meanwhile, Croft tried to shove Yoshi against the ropes to bring him back for a pin. Yoshi held onto the ropes and Croft fell backwards. As Croft got up, Yoshi turned and hit his roundhouse kick to knock Croft out for a pinfall. As the camera showed the pin cover, Croft was bloodied up in his mouth and nose area. Byron Saxton speculated that maybe Croft broke his nose.

Winners: Yoshi Tatsu and Goldust win via pinfall over Croft & Barreta to earn a Unified Tag team title match on next week's ECW.

Saxton and Matthews talked about how prestigious it would be if Yoshi and Goldust could win the tag titles next week. Matthews then introduced footage of the first WWE Hall of Fame inductee for 2010, the Million Dollar Man Ted Dibiase. Dibiase will be inducted on March 27th in Phoenix, AZ, one night before Wrestlemania 26.

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As ECW returned, Josh Matthews mentioned the Divas Valentine Day themed photo gallery on WWE.com now.

Perry Wallace vs. Ezekiel Jackson

Jackson got to take on a local Baton Rouge wrestler, Perry Wallace for tonight's contest, with William Regal at ringside. Matthews and Saxton noted that Jackson will be probably the hottest free agent after ECW ends. Right after the bell, Jackson shoved Wallace down. Wallace tried to battle back, but Jackson picked him up and brought him to the corner for a beating. From there, he tossed him halfway across the ring, then raised up his arm for a serious clothesline to level Wallace. Jackson finished him off with the one armed slam to win it, with Regal looking on approvingly. Jackson tossed Wallace out of the ring after the bell.

William Regal got in the ring with a mic. Regal announced that what happened in the ECW title match at Royal Rumble was a travesty. Regal said Tiffany has set back females as management 25 years by doing her bad job on ECW. Regal said she can redeem herself by granting Ezekiel a championship match on next week's show, since Jackson deserves to be champion. Jackson took the mic and addressed Christian saying if he chose to accept the challenge, that next week Christian's reign as champ will come to an end, with Jackson as the final champ. Jackson quoted the book of Ezekiel to close his comments.

Winner: Ezekiel Jackson wins via pinfall over Perry Wallace.

Still to come tonight, the main event featuring Shelton Benjamin and Vance Archer with No countouts and No DQ's.

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Raw Rebound covered the events that went down between Batista and Cena 8 days ago when Raw went off the air. Cena got in the ring to close last night's episode of Raw 02.08.10, where he called out Vince McMahon. Vince came out with 10 security guards, then got in the ring with Cena. Cena told Vince he does this for the moment, while Vince does it for the money. Cena said Bret Hart told him he wants another moment, to wrestle Vince at Wrestlemania 26. Vince said yes at first, as Cena left to go backstage. Suddenly, Hitman emerged from the crowd to get in the ring and attack Vince. Vince was able to escape with the help of his security guards. Vince got on the mic angrily and told him there will be no Wrestlemania match, because Bret deserves to be screwed. Bret snapped after that and began destroying WWE electrical equipment near the ramp, and then the announcers table with TV's.

Matthews and Saxton discussed the upcoming 2010 Elimination Chamber PPV matches where Sheamus defends the WWE title against John Cena, HHH, Kofi Kingston, Ted Dibiase and Randy Orton. For Smackdown, the Undertaker defends his World title against Chris Jericho, Rey Mysterio, R-Truth, John Morrison and CM Punk.

Josh Matthews and Saxton discussed how next week is the final ECW ever. They pondered if there will be an ECW Championship match next week, then cut backstage to Christian. Christian said he accepts Jackson's challenge but they need to do the final title match in a big way, as an Extreme Rules match.

Shelton Benjamin was introduced for the main event. He got on a mic and in the ring saying he's too good and too talented for ECW, but in his first week on the show Yoshi Tatsu kicked him in the head to pin him in about ten seconds. Shelton said every week after that the young superstars showed him what it takes to make it in this industry. The crowd kept chanting "Who Dat" at Shelton so he finally smirked and yelled out "Who Dat" in response. Shelton said he's going to miss everyone from the locker room except Vance Archer. Shelton finished by saying he can't wait to wipe that stupid smile off Archer's face and beat him like he's never beaten him before.

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Shelton Benjamin vs. Vance Archer
No Countout, No DQ match

Shelton got the upperhand early as he knocked Archer to the outside. Archer was frustrated but came back in to gain control. He beat away on Shelton in the corner for a bit, before the Gold Standard made a strong attack. He punched away on Archer, then put him into a single leg Boston Crab. Vance Archer grabbed the bottom rope but the ref wouldn't break the hold because of the no DQ rules. Archer finally pulled himself out of the ring, then got back on the apron. He tried to climb the corner but Shelton was over to kick him off down to the floor. ECW took a commercial break.

When ECW returned, Vance Archer grabbed a Kendo Stick, but Shelton had a steel chair. Archer went at Benjamin, but hit the chair with the stick. Shelton tried to smash the chair on Archer but missed and hit the steps. Archer grabbed him and dropped him on top of the crowd barrier then hit a running kick to take control. Shelton had blood on his forehead as he got back in the ring. The ref took a time out, then called in a medical official to take a look at Shelton. During the commercial break, Shelton had been slammed head first onto the announcers table which bust him open.

Shelton got up and said to continue the match. Archer attacked him, but Shelton battle back. The two fought up on the corner, where Archer landed a huge slam move from a Bear Hug for a near fall. Archer took the corner turnbuckle off, then brought Shelton over to yank him against the exposed steel. Archer hit a knee drop and then punched away on Benjamin's hurt arm several times. Archer had several nearfalls, but when trying to grab Shelton by the leg he sustained a kick from him for a near fall.

In the closing moments, Shelton jumped up on the exposed turnbuckle area, then was able to jump off for a reverse neckbreaker on Archer. He followed that up with Paydirt to slam Archer face first to the mat for the pin.

Winner: Shelton Benjamin wins via pinfall over Vance Archer.

Next week will be the final episode of ECW ever, featuring two championship matches: Yoshi Tatsu & Goldust versus Miz and Big Show for the Unified Tag titles, and Ezekiel Jackson versus Christian for the ECW title!

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ECW Recap 02.02.10

ECW Recap from Memphis, TN:

There were no fireworks to start off tonight's ECW episode. ECW Commentators Josh Matthews and Byron Saxton welcomed fans to the show just 48 hours after the exciting Royal Rumble, as we now are on the road to Wrestlemania 26. Ring announcer Savannah introduced Hall of Famer, Tony Atlas, for the Abraham Washington Show.

Washington joked he was MIA the past few weeks because NBC wanted to hire him to replace Conan O'Brien. Atlas joked they didn't want him because he isn't good enough. Abe said he turned down the job because he knew the WWE Universe would miss him way too much. Abe said thank you and you're welcome, then said they owed him $40 million in cash, checks or food stamps. Abe Washington said Mr. McMahon will be out later tonight to address the future of ECW.

Tonight's guest on The Abraham Washington Show was ECW Champion Chr came out holding the ECW title belt up proudly, coming off a win Sunday at Royal Rumble against Zeke Jackson. Abe let Christian know that he's held his title longer than any other male or female in the WWE right now. Christian said he didn't know that, but he's proud to be champ and looking forward to further challenges. Just then, Zack Ryder's music hit and he came out with a mic and Rosa Mendes. Ryder started going off about Gregory Helms getting arrested, and having his mugshot on TMZ. He said he is the true heart and soul superhero of the WWE. Christian remarked that Ryder's mad that Helms got on TMZ and is recognized, but Ryder isn't. Christian started saying everyone makes mistakes, like Tiffany for giving Abe his own talk show. Christian said Ryder's biggest mistake was when he hooked up with Tila Tequila, referring to Rosa Mendes. Zack got in Christian's face and shoved him. Christian paused then shoved Ryder onto a couch. Abe Washington said the show was over and rolled the outro music.

Josh Matthews and Byron Saxton talked about tonight's big show, which will feature the biggest news in the history of ECW. Vince McMahon will address the future of ECW.

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When ECW returned they discussed the Royal Rumble, with news coverage on WWE.com, as well as thanked Skillet for their Royal Rumble theme song "Awake". Matthews talked about how many moments have made in the Memphis TN arena, and another will be made tonight by Mr. McMahon.

Shelton Benjamin vs. Vance Archer

They showed footage from last week where Vance Archer attacked Shelton backstage during an interview, knocking the Gold Standard down to cut his own promo about dreams and reality.

Early on in the match, Benjamin did a suicide dive out onto Archer on the outside, before tossing him back in. Archer kicked Shelton in the gut as he got in, to regain control. Archer tried a headlock sleeper hold, but Benjamin tossed him to the mat, then knocked him back out of the ring again. Unfortunately, Benjamin missed on a move outside the ring causing him to hit head first into the crowd barrier. ECW headed to break.

Archer was in control out of the commercial break. He followed a snap suplex with an arm submission hold. Benjamin got to his feet and fought his way out though. Archer had several near falls, then went back to the arm hold on the mat. Benjamin managed to avoid Archer charging at him in the corner, then clipped his leg. Benjamin used several running take downs, then went to work on the left leg. Benjamin tried a move on Archer in the corner, only to get elbowed in the jaw. Shelton landed out of an attempted suplex by Archer on his feet and turned it into a neckbreaker. The two had a near fall situation in the corner with Archer using the ropes. The ref noticed it and stopped counting the pin. Moments later, Archer used a pinfall on Benjamin near the corner, using his legs on the ropes without the ref seeing.

Winner: Vance Archer wins via pinfall over Shelton Benjamin.

Josh Matthews introduced highlights from the Raw Rebound, where Bret Hart returned to Raw to call out Mr. McMahon. Bret addressed Vince's actions in Montreal, on the Raw a month ago that Bret hosted, and his comments about Bret being a piece of chewing gum with no more flavor. Vince said he doesn't understand what any of the fans see in Bret, because Vince thinks he's pathetic. Vince said he had decided against nominating Stu Hart for the 2010 WWE Hall of Fame, because he doesn't deserve it. This enraged Bret more. Things ended sourly again as Bret began to attack Vince. The Animal Batista rushed to the ring and attacked then restrained Bret, allowing Vince to berate The Hitman, and then spit in his face.

Josh Matthews said there will be exclusive footage of what happened between John Cena and Batista after Raw went off the air. A still image was shown of Batista about to Powerbomb Cena on some steel steps in the ring.

Later tonight in the main event, Christian will battle Zack Ryder after what happened earlier on.

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ECW returned with Yoshi Tatsu being introduced for the next match. Goldust accompanied him to the ring for the match.

Yoshi Tatsu vs. Trent Barreta

Caylen Croft accompanied his tag partner to the ring. Josh Matthews said Barreta prepares for matches by playing Guitar Hero and watching Steven Seagal movies.

Late in the match, Yoshi went for his roll through move with his arm around Barreta's neck. Barreta blocked and went for a move of his own but Yoshi rolled through, got to his feet and kicked a seated Barreta in the chest. He had a near fall out of that, then decided to go for the high risk move on the corner. Barreta went over and slapped him then climbed up to fight. Trent went for the superplex but was shoved off by Yoshi. Barreta exploded for a Hurricanrana though off the ropes as he ran back up. He had the near fall, and started to argue with the ref about the count. As he turned around he ate a roundhouse kick from Tatsu that knocked him out for the pin.

Winner: Yoshi Tatsu wins via pinfall over Trent Barreta.

Up next, Vince McMahon will make an announcement regarding the future of the ECW.

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Ring announcer Savannah introduced the Chairman of WWE, Mr. McMahon. He arrived out to the top of the ramp with a mic in hand to address the fans. Vince said he was there to proudly announce that in 3 weeks time, ECW will be going off the air. He thanked everyone who made ECW the success that it was. Vince said a new innovative program will be brought to SyFy in its place. Vince called it the next "evolution of WWE and television history". The Chairman thanked everyone and smiled as his theme music started back up to end the speech. Josh Matthews and Byron Saxton were befuddled by the news, trying to figure out what it meant exactly.

Gregory Helms was in the ring in a suit and said his guest is Ezekiel Jackson with William Regal. The duo walked to the ring intently for the interview. Helms started to ask Jackson how he plans to get past his loss to Christian at the Royal Rumble. Regal took over the interview and asked Helms if it's been a trying week for him. Helms paused then said it has but he's going to try to get past it. Regal told him his week was about to get worse. They began attacking Helms who responded by going after Regal. Jackson soon snatched him off and began the beatdown. It culminated with Jackson's one arm slam to the mat for Helms. Christian finally came rushing to the ring with a Kendo stick. He got one shot in to strike Jackson in the gut, but missed Regal as he escaped the ring. The heels got up on the ramp to smile about what they had just done.

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Christian vs. Zack Ryder

Zack Ryder arrived to the ring with Rosa Mendes, both looking angry. Early on Ryder knocked Christian down to the corner and gave him a "What's up bro?" taunt. When Christian retaliated, Ryder ducked out under the ropes. He came back to kick Christian in the gut and hammered him down. Ryder continued the onslaught by choking Christian against the ropes. Ryder went for a suplex move from the apron, but Christian blocked him and eventually dropkicked Ryder off. Rosa looked on in agony. Ryder managed to catch Christian from a move off the ropes, then turned it into a slingshot into the bottom rope.

Christian rallied the peeps as he got to his feet from a Ryder hold on the mat. He punched back, but Ryder hit a Rough Ryder leg lariat on Christian as he came off the ropes. After a near fall, Christian fought off Ryder from the corner and went up top. Ryder got up to fight with him and went for the Superplex, but Christian punched him down, then hit a cross body lateral press. Christian managed to hit several more moves including his patented stand on the back of Ryder using the ropes, and then hopping over the ropes to the outside to slap Ryder in the face.

In the closing moments, Ryder had a near fall as he stopped Christian's Sunset Flip attempt. Christian countered a charge from Ryder in the corner with his leg kick from the outside apron, then did a forearm off the corner. He hit the Killswitch from there, and was ready for the pin, but Ezekiel Jackson was soon in the ring to crash the party. Jackson began to hammer away on Christian outside the ring, and Regal ran at him with the Knee Trembler. Jackson threw Christian into the steel steps, and then he and Regal stood over him outside the ring as ECW ended.

Winner: Christian wins due to disqualification over Zack Ryder.

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ECW Recap 01.19.10

ECW Recap from :

ECW opened with highlights from last week's ECW Homecoming Finale battle royal which involved the 8 men who earned spots in the match. It came down to Kane versus Ezekiel Jackson as the last two men remaining. Jackson fought his way out of a near chokeslam. Jackson avoided a Kane clothesline from off the corner, and then knocked Kane out over the top rope to win it. Regal joined Jackson in the ring to stare at ECW Champ Christian who was at ringside.

Josh Matthews welcomed fans to the show, and reminded fans the Royal Rumble is coming up in less than two weeks. On tonight's show, Christian will face William Regal, in preparation for his upcoming title defense at the Rumble.

Tony Atlas was introduced, so he could introduce the special guest host of tonight's Abraham Washington Show, Santino Marella. Marella went through some Italian words having Atlas repeat them after him, then introduced his first ever guest, Vladimir Kozlov. Marella told Kozlov to relax on the couch because he's in America now. Santino said he wanted a guest who isn't quite popular with the people. Kozlov spoke about how he was part of a biker gang in the Ukraine for 3 years, until someone ran over his face. Kozlov said people are scared of him, thinking he's the bad guy, Ivan Drago, from Rocky IV. Santino tried to get him to say some movie quotes. Santino asked Kozlov what thinks he likes in America, and he listed off chili cheese fries, Hannah Montana and 24 hour Walmarts. Santino said they have lots in common and they should be a tag team. Kozlov replied no. The fans seemed to be disinterested in the whole skit because Kozlov was tough to understand.

Yoshi Tatsu and Goldust were shown backstage walking out for the next match against Croft and Barreta.

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Yoshi Tatsu & Goldust vs. Caylen Croft & Trent Barretta

In the late stages of this one, Croft & Barreta were playing keep away with Yoshi, trying to wear him down while preventing the tag. Yoshi finally managed to escape and made the hot tag to Goldust. Goldust came in against Croft and quickly took him down with a clothesline, and eventually his drop down punch from one knee. After an atomic drop and a kick to Croft's face, Goldust went for a bulldog but Croft shoved him to the corner. Goldust came back and eventually hit a powerslam. Barretta came in to intervene, causing Yoshi to come in to try to get rid of him. Tatsu was knocked to the outside. Meanwhile, Goldust rolled up Croft. Barretta hit a clothesline on Goldust as he had the sitting pin, allowing Croft to roll up Goldust and steal the win.

Winners: Croft and Barretta win via pinfall over Goldust & Yoshi Tatsu.

Zack Ryder was walking hand in hand with girlfriend Rosa Mendes down the backstage hallway. Josh Matthews said rumor has it Ryder has a major announcement for the WWE Universe, next.

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Ryder came to the ring with Rosa Mendes. He talked about ending Tommy Dreamer's career with ECW, and becoming the new heart and soul of ECW. He said Hurricane tried to meddle in his business last week, but wound up learning his lesson for it. Ryder said he's the new heart and soul superhero of ECW. He then called up the ring announcer Savannah, and told her to announce him with his new title. She twice announced him as "Zack Ryder, the heart and soul superhero of ECW", but Ryder anr Rosa weren't satisfied with her announcing. Rosa began yelling at Savannah in espanol calling her "estupida". Eventually, The Hurricane showed up on the apron. Ryder went to attack, but ended up getting thrown head first into the ringpost and off the apron. Hurricane stayed in the ring looking out. Hurricane went to the outside of the ring and kissed Savannah on her hand, causing the ring announcer to blush and smile.

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During commercial break, an ad was shown for the "Best of WWE Raw 2009" DVD coming out next Tuesday.

When ECW returned, they talked up the 2010 Royal Rumble matches including Orton versus Sheamus for the WWE Title, Christian defending the ECW title against Ezekiel Jackson, and Rey Mysterio versus Undertaker for the World Heavyweight Title.

Matthews and Saxton talked about the developing rivalry between Shelton Benjamin and Vance Archer. A few weeks ago they had a match, and Archer was disqualified for not stopping as he beat on Shelton in the corner. The two will meet on this Thursday's WWE Superstars.

Christian vs. William Regal

The ECW champ was introduced first and arrived out to salute his peeps in the crowd. ECW took a commercial break with Christian posing from the ring corners. When ECW returned, Regal came to the ring with Ezekiel Jackson. Jackson got in the ring to stare down Christian before the match.

Christian was able to make a comeback after knocking William Regal out of the ring and into the crowd barrier. He went out and retrieved Regal to toss him back in, but as Christian got on the apron, Ezekiel Jackson walked over to distract him. Christian dropped down and went to stare down Jackson as ECW went to commercial.

The match was back and forth in the closing moments, with both men trading shots and pinfall attempts. Regal beat on Christian in the corner, until the ref pulled him away. Regal went back to do more damage, but Christian kicked him away, then got on the middle rope for a European uppercut. Christian revved up the crowd and went for Killswitch. Regal countered and went to toss Christian out of the ring. Instead, Christian countered him and tossed Regal over the ropes. Just then, Ezekiel Jackson snuck into the ring behind Christian and attacked. The ref promptly called for the bell.

After the bell, the attack continued. Jackson slammed Christian to the mat hard. Regal crawled back in the ring and did a knee trembler on Christian. Jackson did his one-armed slam move to plant Christian on the mat. Jackson's theme music blared as he signaled in the ring he'll be wearing the ECW belt soon. Jackson picked up Christian for one more of his finisher slams before ECW went off the air.

Winner: Christian wins due to disqualification over William Regal.

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ECW Recap 01.12.10

ECW Recap from Green Bay, WI:

A video was shown of highlights of the ECW Homecoming tournament matches from the past month or so. Tonight it will culminate with a 8-man battle royal in the Homecoming Finale, featuring all of the tournament winners.

Rosa Mendes came out to start off the show. After dancing a bit to her theme music, she introduced the "man who ended Tommy Dreamer's career". Zack Ryder made his way to the ring to brag about his accomplishment, and then noted that all the former ECW stars are in the back just to see him, not for the battle royal. Ryder said he is the heart and sould of ECW.

The Hurricane came out to interrupt Ryder. He questioned what Ryder said and called him "Citizen Woo Woo". Hurricane said he was sent there to shut Ryder up. Hurricane also called Ryder the rear-end of ECW, since he's talking out of his. Ryder laughed it off, and Rosa began to yell at Hurricane in Spanish. Hurricane made a joke about "press one para engles", so Rosa slapped him. Hurricane responded by punching Ryder down then knocking him out over the top rope. Hurricane smiled in the ring as Rosa tried to help Ryder up.

They plugged the upcoming 8-Man Battle Royal for ECW Homecoming. Yoshi Tatsu, Kane, CM Punk, Vance Archer, Evan Bourne, Shelton Benjamin, Ezekiel Jackson and Matt Hardy will all compete in the Battle Royal with the winner heading to the Royal Rumble to face ECW Champ Christian.

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The Hurricane vs. Zack Ryder

Commentator Josh Matthews said that ECW GM Tiffany ordered a match between Ryder and Hurricane during the break. Early into the match, Ryder hit his Rough Ryder leg lariat, but Hurricane escaped a pinfall. Ryder taunted the crowd a bit before going back to work on Hurricane.

Hurricane began trying to make his comeback, then hit a neckbreaker. He hit the Hurri-Cut from the corner, then went on the top corner. Ryder cut Hurricane off on his move, and followed with the Zack Attack to win it. Ryder and Rosa celebrated their win after as Hurricane looked frustrated.

Winner: Zack Ryder wins via pinfall over The Hurricane.

Backstage, CM Punk and Luke Gallows were hanging out. Punk gave his thoughts on the Battle Royal and how winning it will allow him to convert the poisoned masses to the "straightedged lifestyle". Punk said when he wins the ECW title again he can mold all the young ECW stars from the ground up in his image. Punk said the movement begins tonight after he wins the battle royal.

---

During commercial break, they promoted the upcoming Raw hosted by Don Johnson and Jon Heder. Also, Undertaker will answer Shawn Michaels' challenge about a WM 26 rematch.

Goldust vs. Trent Barreta

Barreta came to the ring with his tag partner Caylen Croft. Goldust was on the offensive early with his attack, and took Baretta over the top rope to the floor. Baretta recovered when he was able to get Goldust with a neckbreaker against the top rope. He used a running clothesline to take Goldust out outside the ring.

Goldust staged his comeback back in the ring after Barreta seemed in control. Goldust was now in control and ready for the Curtain Call, but Barreta escaped. He hit an elbow on Goldust from out of the corner, then a running knee to the face to collect the pinfall win in about 6 minutes time.

Winner: Trent Barreta wins via pinfall over Goldust.

Backstage, Regal was with his man Ezekiel Jackson discussing the Homecoming. Regal mentioned how Ezekiel's a biblical name and he can do damage of biblical proportions. Ezekiel then quoted from the "book of Ezekiel" and glared at the camera.

Kane was shown down the hallway walking on his way for the upcoming battle royal.

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When ECW returned, they presented Raw Rebound. Highlights were shown to feature the main event tag match: DX vs Jericho & Mike Tyson. Tyson seemed like he was going to go after DX again, but in the end he turned against Jericho and punched him down to give DX the win.

Ring announcer Savannah introduced ECW GM Tiffany. Tiffany discussed the ECW Homecoming which has been going on via the tournament the past month. She introduced Christian, the current ECW champ, who came out as guest commentator to work with Byron Saxton and Matthews. Christian put his belt on the table then pulled out a sheet of "smarter questions" for the commentators to ask him this time.

CM Punk and Yoshi Tatsu were the first two guys introduced for the Battle Royal. ECW headed to a commercial break.

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ECW Homecoming Battle Royal

Competing in this 8-man over the top rope battle royal were Yoshi Tatsu, Kane, CM Punk, Vance Archer, Evan Bourne, Shelton Benjamin, Ezekiel Jackson and Matt Hardy.

The first casualty in tonight's Battle Royal was Evan Bourne, eliminated in under 20 seconds. From there, it was just seven guys, with Kane looked at as the favorite. Yoshi Tatsu and CM Punk fought it out in the corner, with both men almost eliminating the other at separate points. A commercial break came with seven guys still remaining.

Back from break, Shelton Benjamin took out Vance Archer off the apron with a cross body splash. The two continued their fight on the outside, with just five men left in the ring competing. Christian mentioned he feels Yoshi Tatsu is the biggest threat to him in the battle royal.

Jackson and Hardy went at it, with Ezekiel smashing Matt off the ropes to the outside. It was down to Zeke, Yoshi, Punk and Kane. All four men did a face off in the ring, but then Punk took Kane down with a high knee. Punk was soon met by a serious clothesline from Jackson. Ezekiel tossed Punk over the top rope to eliminate him. From there, Kane tossed Yoshi out, to leave the match at Kane versus Jackson.

The two men locked up in a battle of the big men. Jackson tried to slam Kane out over the ropes, with Kane managing to hold on. He blocked Jackson's attempt to eliminate him and came back with the uppercut. Kane tried to slam Jackson out over the ropes to no avail. He set up for the Chokeslam, but Jackson elbowed out of it. Kane hit him with the big boot to take Jackson down. He went to the top rope for a clothesline, but missed. Jackson followed up with a clothesline of his own which eliminated Kane over the top rope. Jackson is your ECW Homecoming winner.

To close things out, William Regal joined Jackson in the ring to celebrate. They stared out of the ring at Christian who held up the ECW championship belt.

Winner: wins the ECW Homecoming Battle Royal and will go on to 2010 Royal Rumble to face Christian for the ECW Championship.

---

ECW Recap 01.05.10

ECW Recap from Louisville, KY:

ECW on SyFy opened with a promotional video about the ECW Homecoming tournament. Tonight, former champions Mark Henry and CM Punk will face off in the tournament to see who moves on for a chance at Christian's ECW championship.

Josh Matthews welcomed fans to the show saying there's just two spots left in the ECW Homecoming Finale. With that, ECW Champion Christian's entrance music hit and the champ arrived to the ring in street clothes. Christian hadn't even spoken for a minute when former ECW Champion CM Punk came onto the stage along with Luke Gallows to interrupt. Punk had his Slammy trophy in hand, then gave it to Gallows as he crouched down. Punk said nobody in the building had anything more important to say than he did.

Punk asked Christian what was so funny when he hadn't said anything yet. Christian said last night he saw something he thought he'd never see, Bret Hart hug it out with Shawn Michaels. Christian said now he's seeing something he never wanted to see, CM Punk back on ECW. Punk told Christian to get used to seeing him there, and he intends to defeat Christian at the Royal Rumble, after winning the ECW Homecoming. Punk declared himself better than everyone, saying he was their savior. Punk said he'll be the leader and role model for the young future stars of ECW, showing them the straightedge way. Christian asked if that means you have to look like you haven't taken a shower in 2 weeks. Christian listed off more names of competitors in the tournament, then asked Punk who he's facing tonight. Punk said Mark Henry realizing he had a tough draw tonight. Christian said Punk doesn't smoke, drink or do drugs, and he won't be facing him for the ECW title.

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Shelton Benjamin vs. Chavo Guerrero
ECW Homecoming Qualifying Match

This match was among the last two to determine the final competitors for ECW Homecoming.

Late in the match, Chavo was in control as he had a half Boston crab locked in on Shelton to work his left leg. Shelton appeared to be in agony but tried to get the bottom rope. Shelton pulled him back towards the ring with the hold locked. Shelton rolled over and then used a leg kick to knock Chavo off him. Chavo recovered with a leg scissors to toss Shelton to the mat. Chavo went to the corner for a high risk move, but Shelton got to his feet and avoided him. He rushed back over to hit Paydirt and collected the winning pin.

Winner: Shelton Benjamin wins via pinfall over Chavo Guerrero to advance to the ECW Homecoming finale.

Byron Saxton and Josh Matthews reviewed the seven wrestlers who've qualified for ECW Homecoming so far. Already qualified are Shelton Benjamin, Kane, Yoshi Tatsu, Matt Hardy, Ezekiel Jackson, Evan Bourne and Vance Archer.

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ECW returned with a look at WWE.com which is running a "Who to look for in 2010" article, with predictions for 2010. Josh Matthews introduced highlights of last week's match between Zack Ryder and Tommy Dreamer. Dreamer agreed to leave ECW if Ryder defeated him, which Ryder did. After the loss, Dreamer gave a passionate speech with his family members in the front row. He took off his ECW shirt and layed it in the center of the ring, then left with his daughters in his arms.

Zack Ryder arrived onto the ramp with girlfriend Rosa Mendes. Ryder said it's a new year and time to forget about the past. He said Dreamer is dead and gone now. Ryder said last week he stopped the heart and soul of ECW, forever changing the course of the show. Ryder said ECW is now all about one man, Zack Ryder. After his short promo, Ryder and Rosa went backstage.

Josh Matthews and Byron Saxton discussed Ryder's attitude, with Saxton saying Ryder's always been about himself, and now he's trying to become a legend. They launched into highlights from last night's historic Raw with Bret Hart as the special guest host. The show included Shawn Michaels and Bret Hart with an early in-ring confrontation. They ended up burying the hatchet and shaking hands. Later in the night, Vince McMahon went out to the ring. Hitman came out to confront Vince, and the two eventually seemed ready to move on. They shook hands and began to pose with their arms raised around the ring. Suddenly, Vince McMahon turned and kicked Bret in the groin, leaving him laying in the ring. Hitman got up before the show ended and stared at McMahon with disgust.

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Vladimir Kozlov vs. Ezekiel Jackson

William Regal accompanied Jackson to the ring. Early in the mat, Kozlov seemed to get the upperhand with several takedowns. However, Jackson managed to injury Kozlov's left leg and went at the injury as the match went on. He went to the outside and slammed Kozlov's hurt leg against the mat and then the ringpost to further damage it. William Regal watched the destruction from outside the ring.

Kozlov was able to use his right leg to kick Jackson out of the ring on an attempted submission move. Jackson got back in with Kozlov in control. After a slam, Kozlov whipped Jackson to the corner and clotheslined him hard, then rammed him several times in the opposite corner. Jackson kneed Kozlov and came back to level him with a clothesline. Jackson hit a suplex in the ring, then hit his one-armed slam for the victory.

William Regal got into the ring after the bell. They held Kozlov up with Regal trash talking him before they tossed him face down to the mat.

Winner: Ezekiel Jackson wins via pinfall over Vladimir Kozlov.

Mark Henry was in the locker room backstage getting ready. Tony Atlas came in and shook hands with him. Atlas suggested that he could walk him to the ring tonight, saying they had good times in the past. Atlas started doing his continuous laugh that he does on the Abraham Washington Show. Henry paused momentarily then said "No" to Atlas' request to escort him to the ring before leaving the locker room.

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Mark Henry vs. CM Punk
ECW Homecoming Qualifying Match

This was the final qualifying match for ECW Homecoming. In the late stages, Punk was dismantling Henry, using a hard kick to the head to cause Henry to fall to the mat. Henry began to withstand Punk's strikes and kicks and got on a knee, then to his feet. Henry began riled up and headbutted Punk several times, then leveled him with a clothesline. Henry whipped Punk to the corner for a hard splash, then went to the opposite corner for another running splash. This time Punk moved away, and then did his running knee to Henry. Punk went for a Bulldog, but Henry shoved him away. Punk went towards the ref but stopped himself short. With the ref distracted, Luke Gallows got on the side apron and clocked Henry in the face. Henry staggered towards Punk who did a roundhouse kick to KO him for a pinfall.

Winner: CM Punk wins via pinfall over Mark Henry.

The ECW Homecoming Finale match will be held next week featuring CM Punk, Evan Bourne, Matt Hardy, Vance Archer, Ezekiel Jackson, Yoshi Tatsu, Shelton Benjamin and Kane. The match will be an over-the-top rope battle royal to determine the #1 Contender for the ECW title. The winner meets Christian at the Royal Rumble in the title match. Matthews and Saxton reviewed the finish of CM Punk and Mark Henry's match. Punk was kneeling down outside the ring with Gallows congratulating him on the big win as ECW ended.

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ECW Recap 12.29.09

ECW Recap from East Rutherford, NJ:

ECW on SyFy kicked off with a promo video about the ECW Homecoming tournament. On tonight's show two former ECW stars make their returns to compete for a shot at Christian's ECW title. Former ECW Champion Matt Hardy and current Raw superstar Evan Bourne both make their way back to the Land of Extreme.

From the Izod Center,Josh Matthews welcomed fans to the show right after the pyro went off, stating that tonight more superstars will attempt to qualify for ECW Homecoming. Savannah was in the ring to introduce the ECW Champion, Christian. Christian came down to take a seat with the commentary team and told Byron Saxton how great it was to tell his family he's met Bryan Gumbel. Matt Hardy came out for the opening match.

Matt Hardy vs. Finlay
ECW Homecoming Qualifying Match

Josh Matthews reminded fans that eight men will qualify for ECW Homecoming Finale in 2 weeks. Four have already qualified: Kane, Vance Archer, Yoshi Tatsu and Ezekiel Jackson.

Finlay took advantage of Matt Hardy tweaking a leg or knee injury, and continued to target it. The ref nearly stopped the match due to the injury in the early going. Finlay slammed Hardy hard against the ropes, legs first to exploit the injury then used submission holds on the mat. Matt got to his feet and started punching away at Finlay, but eventually the Irishmen kicked him in the hurt leg to knock him back down.

In the late stages of the match, Matt went for a moonsault off the corner, but Finlay moved out of the way. Finlay had a near fall after Matt hurt his left knee yet again. He stood Hardy up for a move, but Matt did his Twist of Fate finisher out of nowhere to win it.

Christian said he's ready for whomever might make the final match to face him at Royal Rumble. Five spots are know decided.

Winner: Matt Hardy wins via pinfall over Finlay to advance to the ECW Homecoming Finale.

Later tonight, two former ECW stars, Evan Bourne and Mike Knox compete for the sixth ECW Homecoming spot.

Zack Ryder was walking backstage with his arm around Rosa Mendes laughing. Ryder spotted Tommmy Dreamer hanging out, and asked him why he's still at ECW. Ryder suggested that Dreamer should just hang it up already. Dreamer told Ryder he's sick of losing to guys like Ryder each and every week. Dreamer grabbed Ryder by the collar and told him if he wants him out of ECW so bad, he can try to beat him tonight. Dreamer said if Ryder beats him, he'll leave ECW forever. Ryder said it's on.

---

Ezekiel Jackson made his way down to the ring. They showed highlights from his match 2 weeks ago in the ECW Homecoming against Vladimir Kozlov. William Regal was ringside and tripped Kozlov, allowing Jackson to win by pinfall. After the match, Jackson and Regal attacked Kozlov outside the ring.

Jackson spoke in the ring about how Vladimir Kozlov betrayed Jackson and Regal by being a weak link in their powerful chain. Jackson said their goal was to dominate ECW, but Vlad became a liability. As Ezekiel quoted the book of Ezekiel and continued to speak, Vlad's music hit and he came to the ring. The two behemoths began to battle. Vladimir sustained some strikes then knocked Jackson over the top rope. Kozlov dared Jackson to get back in there with him. Jackson chuckled from the ramp telling Kozlov "you're gonna get it!"

Tommy Dreamer was in a lockerroom backstage getting ready. Christian came in to ask what was up. Christian asked Dreamer if he's sure that he really wants to fight in the match tonight against Ryder. Dreamer said he's got something to prove again, just like Christian did in returning to win the ECW title. Christian said no matter what happens tonight, Dreamer will be the heart of ECW. Dreamer said he still wants a rematch against Christian for the ECW title. Dreamer brushed back some tears as Christian left.

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Evan Bourne vs. Mike Knox
ECW Homecoming Qualifying Match

The commentators noted that Knox studies Kinesiology which involves taking apart the human body and putting it back together.

Early on, Knox and Bourne spilled to the outside, Both guys were slow to get up as the ref counted them out. Knox threw Bourne into the crowd barricade hard, then got back in the ring. Bourne managed to just beat the count and get back in the ring, but Knox was in control and began to pick him apart.

Bourne was able to counter Knox on a standing suplex and began using his quick kicks. Bourne went against the ropes but Knox did his lateral press to take him down for a near fall. Bourne grabbed the bottom rope to break it. From there, Bourne got momentum as he avoided a splash by Knox, then kneed him in the face. Bourne went to the corner ropes for a high risk move with Knox getting up to trip him down. Bourne jumped but Knox caught him on the shoulder. Bourne used his weight to get over the top rope onto the apron. Bourne used a high kick to Knox' head to knock him to the mat, then climbed onto the corner ropes for the Shooting Starpress to win it.

Winner: Evan Bourne wins via pinfall over Mike Knox to advance to the ECW Homecoming Finale.

There's now just two spots left for ECW Homecoming. Byron Saxton said on next week's ECW three more former ECW champions return to compete for those spots: Mark Henry, Chavo Guerrero and CM Punk.

ECW GM TIffany wished Tommy Dreamer good luck in his match tonight. Dreamer began making his way down the hall en route to the main vent match.

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ECW returned with a look back at last night's Raw. The focus was the rematch between John Cena and Sheamus for the WWE Title. Sheamus told Cena the final image on Raw for 2009 will be Sheamus standing tall oabove Cena holding the title. Both men attacked one another during the program to try to gain an edge. In the main event, Cena seemed to be in control and had Sheamus up for the Attitude Adjustment, but Sheamus grabbed the top rope. Cena yanked Sheamus away, but as he did so, Sheamus grabbed the ref and pushed him down with a free arm. Cena hit the Attitude Adjustment, but it was too late as the ref called for a DQ. Cena ran up the ramp and grabbed Sheamus to bring back to the ring. However, back in the ring, Sheamus dodged Cena's attack and kicked him in the face twice. Raw ended with Sheamus putting a foot on Cena's throat, before heading up the ramp to show off his WWE title.

Josh Matthews and Byron Saxton discussed Cena's "hustle, loyalty, respect" mantra, with Saxton saying Sheamus ended 2009 on quite a high note. Matthews reminded fans of the biggest news of the century: Bret "the Hitman" Hart will guest host the first Raw of 2010.

Backstage, Yoshi Tatshu was trying to teach Goldust how to say "you're welcome" in Japanese. Goldust kept getting it wrong, so Yoshi tried to teach him how to say something easier. The new ECW tag team Croft and Baretta came walking up and cockily asked how to say "future WWE tag team champions" in Japanese. They said they hoped Tommy Dreamer loses tonight and then Goldust & Yoshi Tatsu leave also. Goldust told them to back off then said something in Japanese. Yoshi laughed and said "good one" leaving Croft and Baretta wondering what they said. One of them said he knew Japanese and Goldust just said he's scared of them.

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Tommy Dreamer vs. Zack Ryder

Ryder was accompanied to the ring by girlfriend Rosa Mendes. Early on, both men used arm tosses to throw each other down to the mat. Dreamer tried to keep Ryder down in an armbar hold, but Ryder got up and tried to take Dreamer corner to corner. Instead, Dreamer got a bulldog out of the corner for a near fall. Dreamer hit a powerslam out of the other corner as Ryder tried to jump over him. He hit a flapjack style reverse slam, and Ryder rolled to the outside. Dreamer jumped out onto Ryder and Rosa came over to protect her man. She yelled at Dreamer and Ryder was able to get a punch in, before shoving Dreamer to the ringpost. ECW took a break as Ryder rolled Dreamer back into the ring.

Back from commercial, Ryder was in control using an arm hold to keep Dreamer down. Saxton and Matthews kept questioning if it was wise for Dreamer to offer to leave ECW forever if he lost. Ryder countered Dreamer's comeback attempt for a near fall, then started hammering away on his head. He continued the onslaught by tossing Dreamer shoulder first into the corner ringpost. Ryder went for a running kick move at Dreamer in the corner, allowing Dreamer to get back up and hit a neckbreaker. From there he did a Flapjack to slam Ryder face first, then a Powerbomb style move for a near fall.

Towards the closing moments of the match, Dreamer had Ryder hung upside down in the corner and did his running dropkick, followed by the finisher DDT. He scored the pinfall but the ref noted that Ryder had a foot under the bottom rope. Dreamer was shocked that he hadn't won it. The ref told him to continue the match. Dreamer yanked Ryder away from the ropes then tried for another fall. Ryder reversed for a pin of his own, but Dreamer kicked out. In the process, Dreamer landed on top of the ref who started to hold the back of his neck/head. Dreamer sat Ryder up on the corner, then climbed up with him. He went for a suplex, but Ryder turned it around from the air to do a lateral press on top of Dreamer for the winning pinfall. Dreamer sat up looking dejected over the loss which sends him out of ECW forever.

Winner: Zack Ryder wins via pinfall. Tommy Dreamer agrees to leave ECW forever.

Following the loss which would retire Dreamer from ECW/WWE, the ECW original got on the mic for a farewell speech. He recalled sitting in this very arena a long time ago to watch Piper's Pit by Roddy Piper. Dreamer thanked all of the members of the original ECW, saying it was his dream since age 9 to be a wrestler. He said if you have a passion for what you want to do, you can accomplish your dreams anywhere. Dreamer fought back tears saying he told himself not to cry.

Dreamer told the WWE Universe they have been like his family. He talked about his real family, and his daughters, as the camera showed a shot of his wife Beulah in the front row holding their daughters. Dreamer was in tears, and said life is about getting back up whenever you get knocked down. He thanked the fans for their support, before taking his shirt off to put down on the mat. Dreamer took his daughters from the front row in his arms and carried them up the ramp. They all waved to the camera and crowd, before Dreamer did his infamous entrance yelling pose on stage. Dreamer disappeared backstage with his daughters to close out the final ECW of 2009.

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ECW Recap 12.22.09

ECW Recap from Orlando, FL:

The show opened with a video package which highlighted the "ECW Homecoming" tournament set up by Tiffany. Tonight, former ECW star Jack Swagger stops by to take on new star, Yoshi Tatsu.

Josh Matthews welcomed fans to the show right before the ring announcer, Savannah, introduced former ECW Champion Jack Swagger. Swagger came out all smiles despite the crowd heavily booing him. Swagger tonight ECW's show is finally worth watching again. He said even though ECW looks new, some things haven't changed, like Christian, who's still a chump, and Tommy Dreamer's still fat. Swagger had them roll a montage his own highlights from ECW and Raw. He proclaimed himself the former and future ECW champion. Just then, Zack Ryder's music hit and he came strutting out from backstage with his arm around Rosa Mendes. Swagger gave them a look before heading backstage.

Tommy Dreamer vs. Zack Ryder

They showed a clip from 2 weeks ago where Ryder told Dreamer he used to idolize him, but now wants to end him.

Rosa was ringside trying to encourage Ryder, as Dreamer was able to superplex him from the corner. Back on their feet, Dreamer gained an advantage as he hit a backdrop and then several takedowns on Ryder. He had a near fall with Ryder escaping to get up. Dreamer whipped him to a corner, but Ryder hit Dreamer as he charged at him. Ryder tried a move off the corner, but Dreamer caught him and ended up hanging Ryder upside down in the corner. He did his running dropkick, then tore off his shirt preparing for his finishing DDT. Ryder escaped out under the bottom rope to the apron, then yanked Dreamer down against the top rope. From there, he ended Dreamer with the Zack Attack.

Winner: Zack Ryder wins via pinfall over Tommy Dreamer.

Matthews and Saxton announced that later on tonight we'll see two ECW Homecoming qualifying matches: Goldust takes on Vance Archer, while in the main event its Jack Swagger returning to take on Yoshi Tatsu.

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ECW returned with a WWE "Did you know?" fact from Nielson Research. Savannah introduced WWE Hall of Famer Tony Atlas, so he could introduce Abraham Washington for his show. Abe said he isn't going to come out and rip Tiger Woods a new one, instead he supports him, because pimps have to look after one another. Abe said Tiger is one of the biggest fans of the Abraham Washington show he knows, because he used to call him all the time about it before his wife took a phone and hit him upside his head. Washington kept making Tiger Woods jokes before introducing his guests for the night, the new tag team Trent Barreta and Caylen Croft. They jumped over onto the couch, so Abe chastised them over it.

Croft and Barreta talked about Miz/Morrison and Hart Dynasty, saying they're going to take things to the next level as part of the ECW initiative. Croft & Barreta said they'll be WWE tag team champions by next year. Tony Atlas chimed in that he and Rocky Johnson were tag champs, but Croft/Barreta said "you're old and nobody cares". Abe started to defend Tony telling the tag team they don't talk to a hall of famer and his sidekick that way. Atlas said he never knew Abe cared, and Abe said he didn't, then told Atlas to take them out of there.

Backstage, ECW GM Tiffany was texting when Jack Swagger entered the office. Swagger said Tiffany brought him back to win the ECW Homecoming and come back to ECW as the champion. Tiffany laughed his suggestion off. Just then, Hurricane came flying into the office. Swagger asked him what his superpowers are supposed to be, and Hurricane said his powers are as limitless as the imagination. Hurricane said he can do almost anything, except fix Swagger's speech impediment. Hurricane flew off, and Swagger said "whatever" as Tiffany laughed at it all.

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Goldust vs. Vance Archer
ECW Homecoming Qualifying match

In the latter stages of this match, Goldust gained momentum as he was able to get a bulldog coming from off the ropes. He tried to suplex Archer but couldn't lift him, so Archer rammed him into the corner, then brought him back for his finisher, the reverse DDT style move, to pin Goldust.

ECW Champion Christian was shown backstage watching the match on a monitor.

Winner: Vance Archer wins via pinfall over Goldust.

So far Vance Archer, Kane and Ezekiel Jackson are in the ECW Homecoming Finale which happens in 3 weeks to determine Christian's opponent. There's five more spots to be determined. Still to come tonight, Jack Swagger makes his return to ECW to face Yoshi Tatsu in a qualifying match.

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Tonight, ECW showed the Smackdown Rebound which higlighted last Friday's #1 Contender match for a shot at Undertaker's World Heavyweight title. Rey Mysterio faced Batista in the main event, and Batista had several nearfalls. Mysterio eventually managed to pull off the surprise victory to earn a shot at Taker on Christmas.

Josh Matthews and Byron Saxton discussed the breakdown of the Ruthless Roundtable. Last week, William Regal assisted Ezekiel Jackson in defeating Vladimir Kozlov. After the match, Jackson and Regal beat up Kozlov. Jackson and Kozlov will meet again this Thursday on WWE Superstars.

Backstage, Christian was prepping Yoshi Tatsu, giving him pointers on Swagger. Swagger walked into the locker room and joked that Yoshi was the karate kid, so Christian must be Mr. Miagi. Christian told Swagger he hasn't changed much since going to Raw, and he's still the same old dork. Yoshi said something in Japanese. Swagger told Christian to tell Yoshi he's steamrolling him tonight. Swagger said at the Royal Rumble, Christian's his.

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ECW was back to roll the movie trailer for Ted Dibiase in "The Marine 2" coming out December 29th on DVD & Blu-ray.

Jack Swagger was introduced first for the main event. Next week, Matt Hardy and Evan Bourne will compete in Homecoming qualifying matches on ECW.

Yoshi Tatsu vs. Jack Swagger

Both superstars exchanged near falls throughout the latter stages of the match. Yoshi did a running knee on Swagger then took him down for an attempted kick. Swagger ducked it, so Yoshi sat on him for a pin. Things progressed to the corner of the ring, where Yoshi went for a high risk move. Swagger went up to try to fight him but got hit down to the mat. Yoshi did a spinning kick from the corner to take Swagger down but it wasn't enough to win the match.

Swagger hit a powerslam in the late part of the match, then did his running splash move from the corner. Yoshi again got out of the pin as he grabbed the bottom rope. Swagger lazily picked up Yoshi by his hair from the mat. Yoshi took advantage of the mistake by delivering his roundhouse kick on Swagger for a pinfall win.

Winner: Yoshi Tatsu wins via pinfall over Jack Swagger to qualify for the ECW Homecoming Finale in 3 weeks.

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ECW Recap 12.08.09

ECW Recap from Houston, TX:

Byron Saxton started off ECW stating that they are under a week away from TLC PPV. Josh Matthews was in the ring with a ladder set up and the ECW title hanging above it. Matthews detailed the ladder match for TLC and said it will be a treacherous environment. Suddenly, Matthews was interrupted as Vladimir Kozlov's music hit. Kozlov came storming to the ring and snatched the mic from Josh Matthews. Kozlov called out Ezekiel Jackson to come fight like a man. He said some stuff in Russian, then awaited Jackson. Ezekiel Jackson's music hit and he came out from backstage then rushed to the ring. The two men started at it, but William Regal rushed down into the ring to get between them. He broke it up a bit, but they started again. Regal finally pushed them apart and told them to stand united. Regal got on his knees begging them to stay together.

Next Shelton Benjamin came out from backstage. He said the people came to see action tonight, then started a "let them fight" chant up. Regal retorted that this has nothing to do with Shelton, and advised him to choose his words carefully. Regal said there's 3 of them and 1 of him. Just then, Christian's music hit and both he and Yoshi Tatsu came out from backstage. Christian got on the mic and said the sides are even now. He said he doesn't want Shelton getting damaged prior to TLC where they will steal the show, and he'll remain the ECW champ. Kozlov yelled in Russian at them, and Christian said "that's what she said". Shelton told the 3 heels in the ring to man up and face the 3 of them. Regal said neither of them have authority to tell them what to do.

Just then, Tiffany's music came on and out came the ECW GM, no more cast on her arm. Tiffany said she's got the authority. She offered them a 3 on 3 match, or Kozlov and Jackson cane face each other in a match instead. Regal spoke to each guy to get them on the same page, then accepted the six man tag match. Tiffany asked what Ezekiel wanted and he said to fight Kozlov. Tiffany told Vlad he had the deciding vote. Regal began to coach him until Kozlov said he wanted the six man tag match. Tiffany confirmed the match for later on.

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Tommy Dreamer vs. Vance Archer

Archer had his first test tonight with an actual opponent, the ECW original, Tommy Dreamer. Early on, Archer grabbed Dreamer from behind with a full nelson then slammed him down to the mat in a seated position. He continued the punishment as he used a knee to choke Dreamer in the corner. Archer continued his attack using a side headlock on Dreamer down on the mat. Byron Saxton mentioned Archer is a former college football quarterback from Texas State.

Archer missed on a leg drop giving Dreamer opportunity. He got up and began to fight, then avoiding a charge from Archer by putting a boot up in the corner. Clothesline from the corner by Dreamer and then a flying high crossbody to take Archer down for his first near fall in ECW. Dreamer avoided Archer running at him again, and Archer fell to the outside. Dreamer with a running slide dropkick to knock Archer down outside the ring. Next up, Dreamer threw himself off the apron onto Archer then tossed him back in the ring. Dreamer got to the corner, but Archer got up to knock him down. Archer went for a Superplex, but Dreamer pushed him off then hit a Frogsplash. Archer kicked out at 2, and Dreamer got ready for his finisher. Archer shoved him off the DDT then delivered a big boot on Dreamer. He stood Dreamer up for the finisher, the inverted DDT type move to win.

Winner: Vance Archer wins via pinfall over Tommy Dreamer.

Saxton and Matthews discussed the mysterious masked man who showed up during the Hurricane's match versus Zack Ryder on WWE Superstars. They cut to earlier footage with the masked man, Paul Burchill, and Katie Lea wearing a costume backstage with Tiffany. Tiffany said she told them last week they can no longer appear on ECW. Burchill said she told "Paul Burchill and Katie Lea" but not "The Ripper" or "The Beautiful Nightmare", their new names. Burchill said he's The Ripper, and as The Ripper he's never lost to The Hurricane. Just then, Gregory Helms came in to see Tiffany, then scoffed when he saw her guests there. Tiffany said they could earn an ECW contract by winning his match next week against The Hurricane. Burchill got in Helms' face and said he'd see him next week, with Helms saying he'll see "The Hurricane" next week.

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Josh Matthews reminded fans that TLC PPV takes place Sunday in San Antonio, Texas, and is sponsored by Smackdown vs Raw 2010 the video game.

Backstage ECW's love couple, Zack Ryder and Rosa Mendes were hanging out. They were sharing some sort of cupcake or ice cream cone, telling each other "you're sweeter". Tommy Dreamer came up to them. Ryder told Rosa this is one of the dinosaurs hanging around still in ECW. Dreamer asked Ryder if he knows how many times he's heard that before. Ryder said back in the day he wanted to be just like Dreamer, but now he wants to be the guy who ends him. Dreamer put his arm around Rosa and the two left Dreamer standing there upset.

Mark Franks & Danny Vaughn vs. Trent Barreta & Caylen Croft

Byron Saxton said last week the tag team uses Guitar Hero to get psyched for matches, but after last week's win they went out and bought Mario Kart for the Wii. Early on, the duo continually tagged each other in and out. Barreta kicked the one guy then dropkicked his partner off the apron. The amateur in the ring started up some offense on Barreta, but he had made a tag to Croft. They did their doubleteam finisher where one guy did the atomic drop and the other ran off the ropes to knee him in the face for the pinfall win.

Winners: Barreta and Croft win via pinfall over Vaugn and Franks.

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Raw Rebound was shown when ECW came back from break. Highlights were shown from Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban who was the guest host. He made his presence known by denying Orton a rematch for the WWE title, and denying his request to lift the ban on his championship contention. Cuban ordered that Orton would fight Kofi Kingston with Cuban as the guest ref. He made sure to give a quick count to Kofi so he'd win over Orton, then told Orton after the match he had waited six years to get revenge on him for the RKO Orton gave Cuban at Survivor Series 2003. Cuban also hosted an in-ring confrontation between TLC opponents John Cena and Sheamus. The two guys got heated as they began tearing apart the set and throwing the tables around. Sheamus knocked down Cuban then delivered a big boot to take down Cena. Cuban got back up and shoved Sheamus to the mat. Sheamus got back up and kneed Cuban in the gut, then smashed him through a table set up in the corner.

Josh Matthews and Byron Saxton covered the matches for the upcoming TLC Pay-Per-View including the Tables match between Sheamus and Cena, the Chair match between Taker and Batista, and the TLC Match involving DX and JeriShow.

Christian and Yoshi Tatsu were introduced right before ECW went to a commercial break.

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ECW returned to show a promotional video about the upcoming Ladder match between Shelton and Christian, highlighting their work in Ladder matches over the years. The ECW title was hanging above the ring during the main event. Shelton was introduced next, with Christian clapping for his upcoming opponent.

Yoshi Tatsu, Shelton Benjamin & Christian vs. Vladimir Kozlov, Ezekiel Jackson & William Regal

As Regal brought Jozlov and Jackson to the ring he tried to keep the peace between the two. Christian utilized his quickness a bit early on, until Jackson leveled him with a power move. Jackson used a series of slams to the mat, then made a tag to Regal rather than Kozlov. Christian got an early backslide pin attempt on Regal, then tagged in Tatsu. Tatsu came in for two moves then tagged in Shelton for a few moves before tagging Christian back in. Regal finally recovered by hitting a clothesline on Christian, then tagged in Kozlov. Christian eventually overcame Kozlov's attack, to bring in Yoshi, and then Shelton. Shelton gained momentum with a spin kick to take down Kozlov. Kozlov backed Shelton to the corner where Regal and Jackson were. Shelton began fighting them off with punches. The ref became distracted as Kozlov whipped Shelton to the ropes and Regal pulled the top rope down. Shelton went crashing to the floor as ECW took a break.

ECW returned with Regal keeping Shelton down in a headlock. Shelton got to his feet and started fighting out, but was knocked back down. Jackson tagged in to further punish Shelton. The trio of terror continued their attack on Shelton by keeping him in their corner. Kozlov came in and began to repeatedly headbutt Shelton in his chest before a belly-to-belly suplex for a near fall. Shelton began to fight off Kozlov from the corner, but was knocked down again for a pin attempt. Kozlov began to use submission holds to wear him down some. He whipped Shelton to the corner with Shelton jumping onto the corner and then flipping back to take down Kozlov. However, the heels kept Shelton away from the tag still. Shelton was able to use his strength to push Regal towards the face corner and make a tag, but the ref was distracted by Kozlov and Jackson.

Shelton finally made his escape when he ducked Regal's clothesline, then slammed Regal's back across his knee. Shelton with the hot tag to Yoshi who came in to use quick kicks on Ezekiel Jackson. He had Jackson reeling, but the big man leveled Yoshi with a clothesline. Regal had been knocked off the apron. Jackson went over for a tag to Kozlov who dropped off the apron and walked off. Jackson left the ring and ran up to club Kozlov down on the ramp. Regal went to restrain Jackson from further fighting, and it resulted in a countout.

Winners: Christian, Yoshi Tatsu and Shelton Benjamin.

Post-match, Regal and Jackson were standing near the bottom of the ramp. Shelton ran across the ring and flung himself out onto the two heels to take them down. Meanwhile, Christian and Yoshi got a ladder from under the ring. Christian set it up in the ring, then began his climb to grab the ECW title. Shelton was quickly back up on the apron, then did a springboard jump from the ropes to the ladder. The ladder buckled a bit under the pressure but held up. Both men were able to get their hands on the ECW championship belt at once, then began to argue over who had it as ECW went off the air.

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ECW Recap 12.01.09

ECW Recap from Hampton, VA:

Josh Matthews and Byron Saxton welcomed fans to ECW, a show amidst many questions. Tonight's main event may answer those questions as future opponents Shelton Benjamin and Christian team up to face the troubled team of Vladimir Kozlov and Ezekiel Jackson.

Tony Atlas was up on the stage to introduce the Abraham Washington Show. Tonight's guests were Zack Ryder and Rosa Mendes. Abe insulted the Virginian crowd calling them stupid, and further proving his point by asking Tony where he was from. Tony said Virginia to the cheers of the crowd. Zack Ryder and Rosa Mendes came out to the show. Ryder had a poem prepared which he took out and read for Rosa as the crowd chanted "You suck". Rosa then pulled out a poem of her own to read. She finished off with some words in Spanish then said she meant it from the bottom of her heart. Ryder was overjoyed by it and began jumping up and down on the leather couch like Tom Cruise on Oprah. Abe told Tony to close the show and they headed backstage as Ryder was still jumping up and down.

Matthews and Saxton said it was good to see love in the air with Rosa & Zack, but said there isn't so much love between Kozlov and Jackson from Regal's roundtable. They showed footage from last week, with Kozlov making a mistake outside the ring which cost Regal the match. Kozlov accused Jackson of messing it up, so Jackson planted him and Regal with his one arm slam move.

Ezekiel Jackson was backstage getting ready for tonight's match. Regal came in and said he owed Jackson an apology after reviewing the tapes from last week's match. Kozlov said he let his temper get the best of him, but he won't be apologizing to Kozlov. Kozlov came in to ask Regal if Jackson was going to apologize. Jackson said no way. Regal stopped their arguing, and said they needed to show the rest of ECW they're still a unit, starting with his upcoming match against Goldust.

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Goldust vs. William Regal

Regal came out flanked by Jackson and Kozlov. Early in the match, Goludst was about to go for a Shattered Dreams kick to the crotch on Regal in the corner, but Kozlov and Jackson distracted the ref, allowing Regal to kick Goldust down. Regal remained in control from there, using submission holds and a vicious clothesline for near falls.

Goldust started making a big comeback late in the match, hitting a bulldog for a near fall. From there he punched away on Regal before catching himself against the ropes to give Regal a boot to the face. Kozlov and Jackson got into an argument after Kozlov went to grab Goldust's leg from the outside. Regal became distracted by their shoving and arguing and stuck his head out through the ropes to try to intervene. Goldust snuck up behind him and rolled up Regal in the schoolboy pin for the win. Goldust escaped to the outside asn Jackson got in the ring with Kozlov. Kozlov helped Regal and kept pointing at Jackson saying it was his fault. Jackson walked over and Regal got up. The three men left the ring as a unit without any finishing moves being done this time.

Winner: Goldust wins via pinfall over William Regal.

Paul Burchill and Katie Lea were backstage talking to ECW GM Tiffany. Paul was trying to convince Tiffany that the Hurricane shouldn't be part of ECW. Tiffany told Burchill he lost fair and square last week, so they have to leave ECW as the stipulation stated. The two walked off dejected, just as two new wrestlers walked in. Tiffany put out her hand for a handshake but they ignored it. They said they are the tag team that's going to change the world: Kevin Bereta and Kevin Cross. They kept cutting Tiffany off when she tried to talk. They told her they were about to make her look like a genius for signing them. As they left Tiffany just shook her head bewildered by them.

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Tyler Hilton & Bobby Shields vs. Trent Barreta & Caylen Croft

The new tag team worked together effectively from the onset as they took it to the two amateur opponents. They used several damaging double team moves including a double slam onto their knees. Byron Saxton said during the match that these guys warm up by playing Guitar Hero. They used a variety of doubleteam moves including an impressive finisher where one guy did an atomic drop on the opponent, held him in place as the other came running from across the ring to drive a knee into the opponent's face. Croft and Barreta win their debut.

Winners: Trent Berreta & Caylen Croft win via pinfall over Tyler Hilton and Bobby Shields.

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After a ECW on SyFy WWE did you know graphic was shown, Savannah was backstage for an interview with Vance Archer. She asked what his plan was for ECW. They kept showing highlights of Archer's dominating ring performances. Archer said most guys would walk into ECW demanding a title shot immediately, but he's going to savor each and every moment on his way to the top. Archer said he's painting a masterpiece of agony over ECW, so the roster should take notice, because he's the one to be worried about.

Smackdown Rebound was next. Highlights were shown from the main event with Chris Jericho versus Undertaker, with Batista at ringside for commentary. In the closing moments of a tough match, Batista got involved and used a chair on Undertaker repeatedly after a Codebreaker from Jericho. Baitsta and Undertaker will fight in a Chairs match at TLC PPV.

Matthews and Saxton discussed the TLC PPV matches including Taker vs. Batista in a Chairs match, as well as Cena vs Sheamus in the Tables match.

Camera cut to backstage where Shelton Benjamin was in the locker room playing out a Ladder match between him and Christian. Christian walked in to see what Shelton was up to. Shelton said he knew why Christian was there and yes he'd have his back tonight. Shelton said he wants Christian 100% for when they steal the show at TLC and he wins his ECW title. Christian smirked, then asked if he could join in on the video game. He asked what a button did as he pressed the Xbox 360 power button. Christian said they'd have to wait until TLC to see who wins.

Kozlov and Jackson were walking backstage but arguing. Regal was trying to keep the peace as they headed out for the main event match.

Shelton Benjamin & Christian vs. Vladimir Kozlov & Ezekiel Jackson

Early on, Jackson shoved Christian to the corner. Christian brushed off and got back up to go at Jackson, ducking his attack and striking away, before getting hammered down by Jackson. Jackson charged at Christian who sidestepped him to toss him outside the ring. Jackson finally caught the champ to slam him, but missed on an elbow drop. Benjamin tagged in with momentum. He got a boot in jackson's face from the corner, but as he got on the corner for a move, Kozlov came over on the apron. Shelton jumped onto the apron to take out Kozlov, but then Jackson rushed over to shove him off the apron.

Late in the match,Jackson was pulling Christian's arms behind his back submission style. He was near the ropes and Kozlov slapped Jackson's back to get in to the match. Jackson took exception. Kozlov came in to continue the attack, eventually slamming him on top of the corner for a huge kick to the gut. Christian elbowed out from the corner and then hit a tornado DDT, but was still down. Christian made a hot tag to Shelton. Vlad tried to crawl over for a tag to Jackson, but Zeke dropped off the apron to ignore the tag and leave Kozlov on his own. Shelton rushed over to splash Kozlov in the corner, then quickly hit Paydirt for the win. Meanwhile, Jackson had headed backstage as the pin was counted.

Regal was upset over what just transpired as he looked at the fallen Kozlov in the ring. He talked to Kozlov outside the ring, as Christian and Shelton were posing up on the ramp.

Winners: Shelton Benjamin and Christian win via pinfall over Ezekiel Jackson and Vladimir Kozlov.

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ECW Recap 11.24.09

ECW Recap from Bridgeport, CT:

Byron Saxton and Josh Matthews welcomed fans to the show, with tonight's huge main event featuring Yoshi Tatsu versus William Regal. Also, Abraham Washington welcomes special guest Matt Hardy from Smackdown to speak his mind.

Shelton Benjamin vs. Zack Ryder

Ryder was escorted to the ring by Rosa Mendes. They showed highlights from the WWE Superstars match between these two, where Rosa's cell phone distraction in the ring ended up costing Shelton the match. If Shelton wins tonight, Tiffany will make him the #1 Contender for the ECW title.

Late in the match, Shelton had a pinfall but Ryder got his legs on the rope to break it. Shelton went for a suplex of Ryder near the ropes, with Ryder able to yank Shelton against the top rope. Ryder got to the top of the corner, but Shelton ran up and kicked him down. Rosa quickly rushed over to check on her man as ECW went to break.

During the break, Rosa got in Shelton's way of Ryder outside the ring. Shelton capitalized with a lairat to take Shelton down. In the ring now, Ryder had Shelton down in a hold. Ryder continued the onslaught as he kicked away at Shelton near the ropes, then slammed him back. Ryder hit the cross body off the corner but couldn't get the pinfall. With Shelton down, he went up to the top of the corner and hit a huge splash for a pinfall. Shelton just barely kicked out of it to Rosa & Ryder's dismay. Shelton got fired up in the corner as he kept asking Ryder to punch him again and again, until the Gold Standard fired back and took him down.

Shelton connected with a series of moves into a bridge pin for a near fall. He hit a Powerbomb on Ryder near the corner, then as soon as Ryder stood up, Shelton hit Paydirt for the win. Shelton Benjamin will now be named #1 Contender for Christian's ECW title.

Winner: Shelton Benjamin wins via pinfall over Zack Ryder to become #1 Contender for the ECW title.

As Shelton was celebrating his win, all of a sudden Christian's music hit and the champ came out from backstage. Shelton was surprised by it, as Christian headed down to the ring. ECW went to a commercial break, then came back while Christian was into his speech on the mic in the ring. Christian said he was there to talk about three weeks from now, the new TLC Pay-Per-View. It will have one table match, one ladder match, one chair match and one TLC match. Christian said the past few PPV's the ECW title was overlooked. Christian said it's time for them to step up, then said it will be him versus Shelton in a ladder match. Christian said they need to steal the show at TLC. Shelton agreed to it and shook Christian's hand, then promised there will be a new ECW champ after the TLC PPV.

William Regal was backstage with Vladimir Kozlov and Ezekiel Jackson in the locker room, watching what just went down with Christian and Shelton. Regal said his quest to be ECW champion is still not over, and when he defeats Yoshi Tatsu tonight he'll be a step closer. He told Jackson & Kozlov to bring their A-game tonight. Regal was still speaking as ECW went to commercial.

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ECW was back with the WWE rewind to show highlights of ECW's newest talent, Vance Archer, as he dismantled various amateur wrestlers in the ring.

Alex Reynolds vs. Vance Archer

Reynolds was announced as a local talent from Bridgeport, CT. He got a side headlock early on Archer, before getting tossed down and then kicked. Archer continued to punish him with a boot choking him in the corner. Archer used a solid short arm clothesline to level the guy then kicked him hard in the gut. He picked up Reynolds and did a twirl type slam to slam him face first to the mat. Finally, he picked up Reynolds and put him into the inverted DDT style finisher.

Josh Matthews questioned what the stare Archer had on his face meant. Saxton said it's confidence and victory.

Winner: Vance Archer wins via pinfall over Alex Reynolds.

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ECW returned to show highlights from Raw where Jesse "The Governor" Ventura hosted. He introduced a series of matches to qualify for a Breakthrough Battle Royal. Ventura said only guys who had never been champions before (WWE/Heavyweight) would be part of this. Randy Orton was livid he wouldn't get a shot, but got into it anyway by attacking Primo on his way to the ring to take his spot and defeat Evan Bourne. Later on, it was Sheamus who won the battle royal after eliminating Kofi Kingston. Sheamus and John Cena had their contract signing, which ended with the Celtic Warrior delivering a big boot to John Cena, smashing him through the table, then holding the WWE title up. Jesse Ventura announced that the Title match at TLC will be a Tables match.

Saxton and Matthews discussed TLC PPV which arrives in three weeks. There's three matches so far: Cena vs Sheamus (WWE Title table match), Shelton vs Christian for the ECW title (Ladder match), and DX vs. JeriShow (TLC match).

Next up, it was the Abraham Washington Show featuring Matt Hardy as special guest. Tony Atlas was there as the sidekick as usual to introduce Abe to the crowd. Washington insulted the crowd calling them dog faces, saying he thought he had Twilight Fever (seeing Werewolves everywhere). Abe introduced Matt Hardy and he came out to the crowd's cheers. Washington said when he found out he was going to have a Hardy on the show he was disappointed it was Matt instead of Jeff. Matt said that's ok because he was wishing Abe was really Conan O'Brien. Washington discussed how Hardy will be on SyFy next week.

Hardy said he'll be on the show Scare Tactics next week before ECW. They rolled a clip of Matt coming out as a mental patient to scare a kid working. Washington said that wasn't scary, and he wasn't scared. Tony Atlas snuck up behind him and scared Abe, which caused Matt and Atlas to break out laughing. Washington asked Hardy what he was scared of. Matt said he's been having nightmares about being on the Abe Washington show. He said just kidding, then said when you're a Hardy "Fear" is just a four letter word. Washington said he's afraid they're all out of time. Washington walked off backstage pissed off at Hardy and Atlas. They both did a Matt Hardy v1 sign to the crowd.

Yoshi Tatsu was walking backstage en route to the main event match against Regal.

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Yoshi Tatsu vs. William Regal

Regal came down to the ring accompanied by his henchmen again, Jackson & Kozlov. Early on there was some minor "Let's go Regal" and "Regal sucks" chants exchanged right before a barrage of forearms from Tatsu. Regal came back to knock him down near the corner then used forearm uppercuts of his own. Regal kept attacking with knees to Tatsu and forearm uppercuts, followed by a chinlock hold to keep Tatsu down on one knee.

Regal began to hammer away at the back of Yoshi's head with him face down on the middle rope. Jackson and Kozlov were standing right there outside the ring to watch. As the ref pulled Regal away, his back was turned. Kozlov shoved Tatsu by his face. Yoshi stumbled around and came to, saw Regal there and quickly connected with his roundhouse kick to KO Regal for the pinfall.

Jackson and Kozlov rushed into the ring, so Yoshi quickly rolled to the outside. Jackson and Kozlov stood over the fallen Regal looking upset at the loss. Regal staggered to get up. Kozlov and Jackson eyed him. Regal asked Jackson what happened, then turned to Kozlov to ask him. Regal started finger pointing at Kozlov, then at Jackson. Regal told them that was his shot at the ECW championship. Kozlov pointed a finger at Jackson saying "he did it". Jackson took exception and lowered Kozlov's finger down, then did his one armed slam move to put Kozlov down. Regal told Jackson to calm down, that there was no need to get excited. Jackson thought for a moment then walked up to face Regal. He did the one arm slam to put Regal down, leaving Regal & Kozlov layed out. Jackson headed backstage as they recovered in the ring, shocked at what happened.

Winner: Yoshi Tatsu wins via pinfall over William Regal.

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ECW Recap 11.17.09

ECW Recap from Philadelphia, PA:

The show opened with CM Punk on camera cutting a promo about ECW is where it all started. He noted he was ECW champion before going on to become 3-time straight edge champion. Punk said this like Alexander the Great returning to his areas of victory. He said when he wrestles tonight on ECW it will be the longest and loudest standing ovation in ECW history.

Josh Matthews said we're now less than one week away from Survivor Series and in preparation there will be a special preview matchup. Smackdown's R-Truth teams up with Christian to face CM Punk and William Regal in the main event. All four men are part of a traditional elimination match at this Sunday's PPV.

Zack Ryder and Rosa Mendes came down to the ring. Both of them took mics with Ryder seeming to be mesmerized by Rosa. He said he was officially there to introduce the ECW's newest diva, Rosa Mendes. Zack since they started hanging out his whole life changed. Ryder kept heaping praise on Rosa, and thanked her for being in his corner last week. She said she thought he had the match won until that part at the end happened. Rosa started to blabber on about this time she went shopping that was just like what happened. Ryder interrupted her and said he wants her in his corner again when he has a rematch against Shelton. Rosa started going off again talking about all the stuff she ordered in Spanish to eat. Shelton Benjamin's music hit and out came The Gold Standard to interrupt the couple.

Shelton accepted the challenge then said maybe instead he should have a little wrestling match with Rosa while Zack sits in the corner. Ryder took exception and said not to talk about his girl like that. Shelton called him a tool, then said he should call himself Black & Decker since now he's a power tool. Shelton said let's do the match right now, but Ryder said no. He said when they do have the match Shelton better not insult his girl ever. Rosa got in Shelton's face speaking Spanish, and Ryder decked Shelton in the face. The couple escaped the ring leaving Shelton holding his mug.

Josh Matthews and Byron Saxton brought up that they're going to see a conclusion to the Burchill-Hurricane feud tonight. The match will be a Mask vs Career match. A video promo piece was shown chronicling the feud with highlights from ECW matches and skits where Hurricane saved the day backstage. The match is up next.

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The Hurricane vs. Paul Burchill
Mask vs. Career match

If Burchill wins, Hurricane must unmask. If Hurricane wins, Burchill and Katie Lea have to leave ECW.

Early on in the match after trading offense, The Hurricane was able to knock Burchill to the outside, then did a suicide dive over the ropes onto him. Hurricane tossed Burchill back in for a near fall, before settling into a headlock on the mat. Burchill got to his feet to fight out, and as he pushed Hurricane to the ropes, Katie Lea grabbed his leg. Hurricane turned to face her and Burchill grabbed him to slam backwards. ECW went to commercial.

Upon the show's return, Burchill was in control using a side headlock on Hurricane. Hurricane got to his feet to punch back but Burchill leveled him with a short arm clothesline. Burchill remained in control and used various strike attacks on the mat and in the corner. He missed on a charge in the corner, allowing Hurricane to gain momentum. They traded punches to "Boo" and "yeah", until Hurricane whipped Burchill to the ropes and pounced on him. Hurricane had control after a Bulldog but only scored a 2 count. He signaled for a finisher, but Burchill escaped and did a Pele kick for a near fall.

Burchill countered Eye of the Hurricane by turning it into a bridge pin. Hurricane was able to do a Hurricanrana off the corner for another near fall. He prepared for some sort of running kick move, but Katie Lea started distracting him from ringside. Burchill rushed over and shoved Hurricane into the turnbuckle. He hit a Fisherman's Suplex, with Hurricane just kicking out of a pinfall. Burchill went for it again but Hurricane escaped it and hit Eye of the Hurricane. He was slow on the cover and Burchill kicked out barely.

Hurricane climbed the corner ropes, but Burchill got up and rushed him to knock him off balance. He climbed up with Hurricane with a suplex attempt. Hurricane punched to counter. Hurricane grabbed Burchill for a neckbreaker off the ropes. Burchill and Katie Lea must now leave ECW.

Winner: The Hurricane wins via pinfall over Paul Burchill. Paul Burchill and Katie Lea must now leave ECW.

ECW's General Manager Tiffany was shown backstage watching on a monitor, still wearing a sling/cast on her hurt arm. CM Punk walked in and Tiffany welcomed him back. Punk said he hopes she realizes he's a "straight edge superstar". Tiffany said she knows that's his personal lifestyle choice. Punk said he did some research on her and found she doesn't do drugs or prescription meds, but she does like to drink. Tiffany said she's not self-centered or a prude and likes to have fun. She recommended Punk try it sometime, and try to be a human being. She left and Punk had a puzzled look on his face.

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Johnny Andrews vs. Vance Archer

The intense new ECW star took on another amateur, this one listed from Florida. Archer started off by slapping his opponent in the face, then whipping him hard to the corner. Archer started to stomp away on Andrews. Soon after he did a spinning side slam but face first to the mat for the opponent. He finished with his inverted DDT style finisher.

Winner: Vance Archer wins via pinfall over Johnny Andrews.

Josh Matthews & Byron Saxton covered the upcoming card for Survivor Series 2009.

Backstage, ECW Champion Christian was lacing his boots up when CM Punk walked in on him. Christian asked Punk about the whole straight edge superstar thing. He said he doesn't drink or smoke. Christian asked if he's allowed to hold hands with a girl. Christian asked what happens if Punk is late for curfew. Punk got miffed at him and said to show some respect to a former ECW, tag team, Intercontinental and World Heavyweight champion. Christian said Punk was a champion but he still is.

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Josh Matthews thanked Jay-Z for the "Empire State of Mind" song which backed a highlight video of WWE moments from MSG. They showed the video again that was featured on Raw last night.

Christian & R-Truth vs. CM Punk & William Regal

After Punk, Regal and Christian made their usual entrances, R-Truth came out to perform "What's Up?" slapping hands with fans on the way to the ring. Punk and Christian started off, with Christan slapping Punk down. He grabbed Regal and tossed him into the ring. Soon he tagged Truth in and both men hit missile dropkicks off the corner to take Regal & Punk down. They rolled outside the ring as ECW went to commercials.

ECW returned with R-Truth taking it to Regal. Punk made a tag in, with Truth knocking him out of the ring. Christian got in and did a running dropkick to knock Regal down outside the ring, followed by a dive from Truth onto Punk. As Truth was getting back on the apron, Regal yanked his leg out and Truth fell to the outside. Matthews suggested Truth may have hurt his knee or ankle.

Truth was pounding on Regal, but Punk made a blind tag to come in and take control. He used some sort of standing left leg hold to keep Truth down, working the injury. Regal tagged in to kick Truth's leg, then continued to attack the leg and used excruciating holds. Truth finally landed the enziguiri kick to get away from Regal and tagged Christian in. It became Christian vs Punk with the ECW champ in control. He had a near fall after a Tornado DDT, then knocked Regal off the apron. He signaled for Killswitch, but Punk kicked him and went for GTS. Christian escaped and went for Killswitch but got shoved to the corner. Punk did the running knee and almost got the bulldog, but Christian stopped him short to slam him down.

Regal came in to disrupt the pinfall attempt, so Truth came in as well. Truth got hurt in the leg again and rolled onto the apron with the ref checking on him. Christian picked Punk up for a Killswitch. With the ref not looking, Regal did a knee trembler, followed by Punk's GTS for the win.

Winners: William Regal and CM Punk win via pinfall over R-Truth and Christian.

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