Raw Revelations: Shaq vs. Big Show

Last night on USA, NBA superstar Shaquille O'Neal presided as guest host for WWE Raw. It definitely was the most entertaining and exciting celebrity guest host to fill in on the show so far. As the night kicked off, Shaq was introduced by WWE Hall of Famer Jerry Lawler. Shaq proceeded to walk down to the ring, greeting fans, and tore up a Kobe Bryant poster in the process. Great stuff to start off the show, but it got better. Chris Jericho came out to try to tell Shaq his place as host, but Shaq wasn't having it. The insults began as Shaq called Jericho "Christina". Soon thereafter, Big Show was introduced and arrived to get in Shaq's face. He even jabbed at Shaq saying that he couldn't hit two free throws in a row. Shaq called out Show for a match, but Show backed down saying he didn't want the NBA breathing down his neck. Instead, Shaq booked a match with the tag champs in action against Cryme Tyme, then appointed himself the special guest enforcer.

That tag match was non-title and came later in the night, but it saw a classic Shaq vs. Big Show confrontation on WWE Raw. Show started to annihilate both members of Cryme Tyme in the ring, stomping on them repeatedly, and eventually the ref disqualified him as he was not legal to be in the ring. Soon, Show turned his attention to Shaq, taunting him to get in the ring. The big guy obliged, tearing off his ref uniform shirt and climbing into the ring. Show and Shaq shoved each other a bit, then Show grabbed Shaq around the throat for a chokeslam. Shaq fought back and did the same to Show, so both men had each other's throats. Soon, Cryme Tyme was back in the ring to kick Big Show and break it up. From there, Shaq did a running shoulder block style move to knock Show to the mat and out of the ring. The fans went wild. (See Shaq & Show on YouTube video here)

Other cool stuff from last night included yet another great promo from the Miz, dissing the hometown fans, saying the Wizards lose to any opponents, so the Cavs won't need Shaq to beat them. From there, Miz lost to Cena in a Beat the Clock challenge match, which made Cena the #1 contender for Randy Orton's WWE Title at Summerslam. It was a great match though as Miz tried to outsmart Cena throughout it with various ploys, yet Cena still won. Orton got in the ring to hoist up his title as Cena left the ring. We've got plenty of time leading up to Summerslam to make this interesting. By the way, the only other winner in Beat the Clock was Mark Henry with a time of 6:49 to open the tournament. Jack Swagger lost to Evan Bourne by a surprise pin, Triple H couldn't make his pin before the clock ran out, and MVP had to face a sneaky, returning Chris Masters. Masters prevented MVP from getting back in the ring with a Masterlock. MVP-Masters could make for a great feud, and it was a surprise to see Masters back. I had heard rumors he would be, but still nice to see the Masterpiece, and I'm sure WWE welcomes his talents as a heel on Raw.

About Beat the Clock though; why not include everyone who was in the matches in the challenge? (Carlito, Bourne, Rhodes, Miz, Masters) I mean after all Evan Bourne may have won his match in a quicker time than anyone in the field. Is there a reason the winners should not be included? It's almost as if they are being called "jobbers" by being excluded from it. Strange.

Typical divas match with six divas in action. Maryse was nowhere to be found though, and Gail Kim made a strange blind tag on Mickie to come in and get the win. Wondering if this might be the start of a Gail Kim-Mickie James program for the Divas title? I'd still like to see Kelly Kelly win the divas title as she seems like a good representative, but she may have taken that Torrie Wilson role, hot blonde diva who never gets a title.

The Santino Marella bit with Shaq and Cryme Tyme was definitely better than anything Santino did with ZZ Top last week. Santino was playing Scrabble with Shaq until Cryme Tyme entered. As they started up a "Money, Money" chant, Santino came over with his hat on sideways and started to bust a freestyle rap which included Dikembe Mutombo and Angelina Jolie in it. Not too bad either, although Shaq & Cryme Tyme quickly dismissed him from the scene...

As for Hornswoggle-Chavo, please let's hope that's the last we've seen of that. Chavo is one talented guy, and Hornswoggle is a longtime novelty act. Horney was great when he would sneak out from under the ring to play a part in matches, some surprising comic relief. But now, he's beaten Chavo in 4 matches. Last night's blindfold match had the feel of some sort of circus clown antics you'd see from Ringling Brothers. Add in to that, Hornswoggle falling flat on his back after a dunk attempt on a small hoop backstage. Not sure if that was the plan. Please WWE, no more circus antics...

Raw Revelations: Seth Green runs Raw

Another week, another guest host for Raw, and last night it was actor Seth Green, who's starred in movies like "Austin Powers" and is the co-creator of Robot Chicken. Green was there mostly to promote his upcoming season premiere of Robot Chicken, which will air July 26th. It's set to feature Triple H in one animated sketch as seen on Raw.

The guest host for Raw has been something fresh so I give WWE credit for taking that idea which Trump suggested a few weeks back. Seth Green was a little shaky on the mic, but scheduling a divas bikini match is a move we need more of the hosts to make. Also, Seth decided to live every insane WWE fan's dream, and inserted himself into a main event tag match with the likes of Triple H, John Cena and Randy Orton. During the match, Seth was nearly a victim of a vicious Orton Punt kick, but luckily got the save from Cena. By the way, did you notice the ref slow up his count on Orton's pin on HHH, so Seth could do his part and break up the pin? It was almost as if the ref was giving him a "hurry up and do your part" look. We can't fault Seth though, he's not a real wrestler.

The main event wasn't anything too special. It was your typical build-up to the Night of Champions Triple Threat match, with Cena and HHH as partners and Triple H nearly clocking Cena while going on a sledgehammer rampage in the ring. Of course they reconciled their differences long enough to raise up Seth Green's arms and put him on HHH's shoulders for the victory celebration. Earlier in the night, we got some more teasing of a Ted Dibiase break away from Legacy when Rhodes made a father-son comment. Rhodes hinted that his dad might be guest host next week, but instead we found out it will be rock band ZZ Top. The graphic on screen showed only 2 of the 3 members though. ZZ Top is currently on tour with Aerosmith, who will provide the 2009 Summerslam theme song.

Also on the show, MVP versus Swagger Round 1, with the newcomer Swagger getting a clean win. Looks like MVP is being used to put the newer star over, who will probably become US Champion while on Raw, and eventually move into the ranks of a WWE or World Heavyweight champ. Chris Jericho came out to reveal the contract clause he added for Night of Champions. Jericho will get to choose his tag partner since Edge is on the shelf. Jericho said it will be someone who won't be a weak link like Edge was. I'm going to guess it's Dolph Ziggler. We saw him rush down to attack Rey Mysterio after Jericho lost to him in an Intercontinental Title match on Smackdown. That would make Ziggler a tag team champ without ever actually winning a title. He'd help Jericho defend at Night of Champions, but many have speculated Legacy will win. Now the question is will this be another piece in the split up of Rhodes and Dibiase?

The WWE Divas Summer Swimsuit Spectacular didn't disappoint, with most of the participants in bikinis throwing each other around the ring. Seeing the divas in that skimpy attire choice is rare for Raw these days with its PG format attempts. We also saw another humiliation of Chavo Guerrero by Hornswoggle; this time Chavo had one-arm behind his back. Hornswoggle got the move with a surprise "small package". Not sure where Hornswoggle's 2-0 streak is leading, but I doubt he'll be the Undertaker's next Wrestlemania opponent, unless Taker really needs to take it easy in the ring.

Superstars Recap 07.09.09

Tonight's 7/9/09 episode of WWE Superstars featured Smackdown stars R-Truth and Ricky Ortiz locking up, as well as a rematch between ECW stars Tyler Reks and Zack Ryder. The main event saw an unusual opponent for Chavo Guerrero, in the form of the leprechaun Hornswoggle. Here's the full match-by-match results for WWE Superstars 07/09/09.

R-Truth vs. Ricky Ortiz

Ricky Ortiz had a nice showing here as he was able to gain complete control of R-Truth after throwing him to the outside. Back in the ring, Ortiz applied all sorts of holds including a Boston Crab to wear down R-Truth's lower back. Truth tried to mount some offense several times with Ortiz cutting him, using a side slam to ground him. Ortiz went for the "Big O" splash from the ropes, but Truth rolled out of the way. Truth then missed with his axe kick attempt, but followed with the Lie Detector to finish off Ortiz.

Winner: R-Truth wins via pinfall over Ricky Ortiz.

A backstage segment went down where Vince McMahon was talking on his cell phone when Hornswoggle rushed into the room to hide from Chavo Guerrero. Vince McMahon ended up putting Chavo against Hornswoggle in a match, saying Chavo would have to get down on his knees to wrestle in the match. Chavo got on his knees to shake Hornswoggle's hand, and Horney twisted his wrist.

Tyler Reks vs. Zack Ryder

Early on in this ECW rematch, both men exchanged control of things. At one point, Ryder ducked under the ropes to escape Reks. After a commercial, Ryder had Reks in a chinlock. When Reks tried to escape, Ryder kicked him in the gut and regained control, working on Reks' neck. After Ryder beat on Reks for a while, Reks broke out of the hold and was able to counter Ryder's pin attempt with a sunset flip for an attempted pin. Ryder broke out after 2 and threw Reks onto the top rope stomach first, then followed up with the Zack attack to win it.

Winner: Zack Ryder wins via pinfall over Tyler Reks.

Hornswoggle vs. Chavo Guerrero

Chavo Guerrero was handicapped in this one, forced to wrestle on his knees. At one point, Hornswoggle knocked him to the outside and Chavo ran around angry at the match. The ref ordered him to get on his knees. Chavo got back in the ring, then clotheslined Hornswoggle.

Chavo went to remove the middle turnbuckle cover with the ref noticing. Chavo was able to hit 2 of the Tres Amigos, but Hornswoggle countered the third with a suplex. Hornswoggle climbed to the top rope, and Chavo got up to try to attack him. Hornswoggle blocked Chavo's superplex attempt by biting his hand, then hit the Tadpole Splash to win it.

Winner: Hornswoggle wins via pinfall over Chavo Guerrero.

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Also see tonight's 07.09.09 ECW Recap

Tony Atlas & Hornswoggle Leaving WWE?

It seems with the moves of Mark Henry to Raw and Goldust to ECW that both Tony Atlas and Hornswoggle may be about done with their WWE careers, for now. While both are pure speculation, Tony Atlas may be the more sure release as his contract is expiring in just a few weeks time.

According to twnpnews.com:

Tony Atlas' future with WWE is very much in doubt following the transfer of his associate, Mark Henry, to the Raw brand this past Monday.

Company officials plan on pushing the "World's Strongest Man" as a top babyface, which as a result, has left Atlas to fend for himself as he is not being brought alongside him.

The WWE Hall of Famer's contract is coming due in a few weeks and it remains uncertain whether it will be renewed.

Of course one idea is for Atlas to become the manager for Ezekiel Jackson, another big man like Mark Henry who has yet to wrestle for ECW. Atlas could even align himself with Vladimir Kozlov in his chase for the title. Back in the WWF days, managers took on new wrestlers all the time, so let's hope WWE creative can put Atlas with someone. It would be a shame for Henry to be let go after resurrecting his once dormant career and saving himself from previous issues. Atlas competed in his first wrestling match in some time just a few weeks ago against Evan Bourne, but was on the losing end.

Hornswoggle is another story though. He now has no father figure, with Finlay on Smackdown and Goldust on ECW. Many fans have grown tired of the prankster leprechaun gimmick and found the fact he wins matches to be insulting to other talent. In previous episodes of Raw, Hornswoggle was paired up with Goldust and Festus in some sort of display of "freaks", but now that has been torn apart since the one guy who spoke, Goldust, has been traded to a new show.

Character Analysis: Miz, Goldust, Punk

Three of the WWE Superstars really came into the spotlight on this past week's 3-for-All on Monday Night Raw. Two of the wrestlers can be considered on the undercard while the third has definitely moved into the upper eschelon. We're talking about Raw's The Miz & Goldust, as well as World Heavyweight Champion CM Punk from Smackdown.

The Miz and Goldust (along with Hornswoggle) had a lengthy yet entertaining segment in the ring during Raw's 3-for-All. While I'll be the first to admit it was total filler, it served its purpose well. Miz' character on Raw has been one of the smartest ideas creative has come up with in a while because he says a lot of things that many fans might be thinking. For example, he's continually insulted John Cena as being a superstar loved mainly by kids and soccer moms. He's dissed Cena's acting and continues to pretend he's actually beaten Cena in the ring. In all seriousness, Miz has lucked out because he's always had Big Show intervene in the match to somehow get out of really wrestling Cena. That time will come. On Raw, Miz began to insult Goldust, calling him irrelevant, which is similar to what Jericho had been doing with the Hall of Famers. Only this time, Miz is talking about guys who are part of WWE but don't really do much more beyond comic relief and giving other wrestlers victories.

The other guy opposite Miz on Raw was Goldust and he's truly been lost in the mix on the show. It's also unfortunate that they decided to pair him with Hornswoggle, in some sort of "freak show" type move. While I'll admit the Hornswoggle novelty was fun at first, it gets tired after repeated kicks to wrestler's legs, Tadpole Splashes off the ropes to win matches and squirt gun shots to the face. It's strange that he was moved from Finlay but then again maybe it was Finlay's request so he could have a more serious solo role on ECW.

All that said, Miz and Goldust have the makings of one great feud on WWE Raw. The two played off each other well in their exchange, and if the creative team can come up with some "creative matches", they may be able to steal some of the Raw comedy relief from Santino Marella. Goldust's stuttering as well as Miz' cocky insults directed towards the WWE superstars are something fresh which pokes fun at the product and entertains.

And then there's CM Punk. Just about this time last year, people were questioning this guy as a serious champion. He barely had the World Heavyweight Title after cashing in on a beaten-up Edge, when he was attacked by Legacy and had to forfeit the belt after a week or so. People wondered why WWE even bothered giving him the belt to begin with. This time around it's been different as Punk's held onto the belt, and his character has an interesting edge so to speak. Punk is now in the ultimate opportunist role that Edge often portrays, where he finds ways to win. On Raw he won the match of the night, a Triple Threat title match where he looked to be seriously injured yet still managed to make a pin on Edge (after Hardy's Swanton). He had an exchange with Jeff's brother Matt backstage to further solidify Punk's new role, where he isn't looking for anyone's praise. He's been playing a "tweener" role as fans question is Punk a good guy or bad guy, and what are his intentions? In all seriousness, competition is not always about making friends, it's about winning, and Punk's character is about doing so. There's no need to butter up Jeff Hardy, when Punk can rely on his in-ring skills and finding the ways to win. With that in mind, a Punk-Hardy fight at The Bash will be highly anticipated, and with a clean Punk win, fans can start taking him even more seriously as champion.

5/25/09 Raw Moves to Los Angeles

(Raw plans to hold its own All-star event)

Just recently, there was a rather noticeable scheduling conflict between the WWE and the NBA's Denver Nuggets. The Nuggets are currently playing in a Best of 7 series with the Los Angeles Lakers for the NBA's Western Conference Finals. The winner of that series will be in the NBA Finals. The Nuggets were scheduled to host Game 4 in Denver at the Pepsi Center. The problem? WWE had scheduled its Monday Night Raw for Denver on the exact same night. WWE had scheduled its event weeks ahead of Denver even making the playoffs or knowing they'd be hosting a game 4 Monday night. However, since it's the discretion of the Nuggets owner, the Nuggets will take over the arena Monday, knocking WWE out.

This left WWE Raw with a major dilemma; over 10,000 people had purchased tickets expecting to attend a live episode of WWE Raw in Denver on Monday. WWE had no choice but to find a new place. As Vince and others have said "the show must go on". So WWE Raw will now be moving to a new arena for Monday, the Staples Center, which is appropriately the home arena of the Nuggets' opponents, the Los Angeles Lakers. There could be a possible breach of contract case here, since WWE had signed a deal to bring their show to Denver months ago. Vince McMahon gave some rather heated comments to ESPN calling the Nugets owner a bad businessman and suggesting a steel cage match was in order. Also according to WWE.com, Vince McMahon will most likely have an in-ring or on the air run-in with a character depicting the owner of the Denver Nuggets. A few other ideas might be to have Hornswoggle infiltrate the court during the Nuggets-Lakers game running around with some sort of Lakers banner or pulling down one of the Nuggets' shorts after smacking him in the shin with a shilaleigh. No matter what transpires, WWE is once again gaining press from the controversy, but they will now have to fill seats for shows in two consecutive nights in Los Angeles (Monday's Raw, Tuesday's ECW/Smackdown). WWE is scheduled for a show again in Denver in August, with no word yet if any Nuggets will be attending or participating in the function.

The WWE issued the following statement on WWE.com regarding the Raw news:

“WWE is extremely grateful to the Lakers and the STAPLES Center for the hospitality and professionalism shown to WWE during this whole situation,” said Vince McMahon, Chairman of World Wrestling Entertainment. “We apologize to all of the WWE fans in the Denver area who have been inconvenienced by Kroenke Sports Enterprises. We look forward to bringing two consecutive nights of WWE excitement to STAPLES Center this Monday and Tuesday night.”

Read more about this story at the LA Times website.

Superstars Recap 05.14.09

Rey Mysterio vs. Shelton Benjamin

Preparing for Judgment Day, the Intercontinental Champ Rey Mysterio took on the Gold Standard, Shelton Benjamin. John Morrison was nearby on guest commentary for the match, eyeing Benjamin who he's been feuding with for a few weeks now. Early in the match, Shelton kept Mysterio grounded applying various holds including a headlock and leglock around Rey's waist. The little big man eventually battled back and was able to hit the 619 and a flying bodypress, followed by his trademark splash on Benjamin off the ropes. After the match, Morrison and Benjamin got into it outside the ring, with Morrison knocking Benjamin down.

Winner: Rey Mysterio wins via pinfall over Shelton Benjamin.

Christian vs. Mark Henry

Captain Charisma took on the World's Strongest Man, as Christian looked ahead to his ECW title defense at Judgment Day. In the match with Tony Atlas watching from ringside, Henry applied his traditional Bear Hug to squeeze the life out of Christian. Every time Christian seemed to mount an attack, Henry smirked as he leveled the champion back down. Finally, Christian got things going with several high dropkicks to take the big man down to the mat. Amazingly, Christian scored the pinfall victory after a flying cross body block on Henry, and now will look ahead to Jack Swagger at Judgment Day.

Winner: Christian wins via pinfall over Mark Henry.

Hornswoggle vs. Big Show
Exhibition Match

Vickie Guerrero scheduled a joke of a match as she put the incredibly small Hornswoggle against the mammoth Big Show. During this match, Hornswoggle tried his best, after going for the Tadpole Frogsplash off the corner, but Show still was unstoppable. Big Show readied himself to deliver a knockout punch on the leprechaun, but Goldust showed up to intervene. Goldust took the fight to Show, but was eventually overpowered and put into a vicious submission by Show. Show left the ring with Hornswoggle checking on the fallen Goldust.

Winner: Big Show wins via disqualification over Hornswoggle.

MVP appears on The View

On last Friday's WWE Smackdown, wrestler Montell Vontavius Porter (MVP) was accompanied to the ring and cheered on by Sherri Shepherd of The View. Sherri got a tour of Smackdown and donned a Ric Flair-esque robe to escort MVP to the ring. Not only was Sherri able to provide MVP with moral support in his title US Championship match against Dolph Ziggler, but she also got into it with Ziggler on the outside and apron. After a brief argument Sherri slapped Ziggler from the apron, allowing MVP to take control of things and hit the Playmaker to win it, retaining his United States Title.

On Tuesday's episode of The View, Sherri Shepherd showed her tour and the time she spent hanging out with MVP at WWE in Bridgeport, CT prior to Smackdown last Friday. Hornswoggle was on hand to escort Sherri to the ring while MVP got into ring attire and headed to the arena. On Sherri & Hornswoggle's way backstage to the ring, Great Khali and Ranjin Singh also showed up, as did Santina Marella, Cryme Tyme who did a special View rap chant with Sherri. Sherri finally joined MVP in the ring to try some moves out, including a celebratory kiss. Highlights were shown of Sherri showing up at MSG for Smackdown on Friday. Sherri put on the Flair style robe and joined MVP at ringside, helping him win the match against Ziggler when she slapped him from the apron. Afterwards, Sherri told MVP she needs to bring him on The View for everyone to meet.

MVP joined Sherri, Elizabeth, Joy, Whoopie and Barbara Walters on The View. MVP told the crew never to upset Sherri because he was more concerned about what she was going to do to Dolph Ziggler than him. MVP also discussed how women play a part in running WWE and also in viewing it. He talked about Linda McMahon & Stephanie McMahon playing a part in the company. MVP made a statement that 40% of their viewers are females. Sherri suggested fans tune in to Smackdown and Raw to check out all the WWE action.

ECW Recap 04.21.09

ECW Recap from London, England:

Josh Matthews and Matt Striker announced that tonight will be the ECW Championship contract signing between Jack Swagger and Christian. Hornswoggle and Finlay came to the ring to kick off the show. Finlay took the mic and held Hornswoggle by his side. Finlay discussed Hornswoggle being drafted to Raw, so tonight will be hist last night on ECW. Finlay handed the mic to Hornswoggle and he excitedly said "I wanna wrestle!" Finlay requested for ECW interim GM Tiffany to put Hornswoggle in a match tonight. Just then, Natalya and Tyson Kidd came out to interrupt.

Tyson Kidd began taunting and joking about Hornswoggle having to leave. Finlay told Kidd that Hornswoggle's a leprechaun, but Kidd's the midget. Natalya began to brag about how Tyson will be the best Hart ever, even surpassing Bret Hart, and told Hornswoggle to run along with his dad. Hornswoggle took exception, ran over and bit Natalya on the backside, causing her to roll out of the ring. Kidd escaped too, and Natalya took the mic, screaming at Hornswoggle that he can have his farewell match against her, tonight.

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Hornswoggle vs. Natalya

The match was officially set up by interim ECW GM Tiffany. As the match started, Natalya began to taunt him by putting up her hands for a strength test but out of Horney's reach. Natalya slapped Hornswoggle around a few times, prompting him to run around her and bite her on the backside again. Tyson Kidd jumped onto the apron to try to interfere, but Finlay ran over and swiped his leg, causing Kidd to hit the floor. Natalya shoved Hornswoggle to the mat, then ducked out through the ropes to check on Kidd. Hornswoggle rushed over and rolled up Natalya in a surprise winning pinfall.

Winner: Hornswoggle wins via pinfall over Natalya.

---

Backstage, ECW interim GM Tiffany was going over paperwork with someone when Natalya and Tyson Kidd showed up. Natalya started to complain to Tiffany about what Hornswoggle did to her in the ring and said she deserves more respect. Tiffany told them both to calm down and show her some respect. Kidd and Natalya asked for Hornswoggle to be fired, but instead Tiffany put Natalya & Kidd in a match against Hornswoggle & Finlay on WWE Superstars this Thursday, then told them to leave so she could go over a contract signing.

Josh Matthews and Matt Striker introduced the Raw Rebound which covered last night's Triple H vs. Randy Orton No DQ match. It ended with Legacy, Shane McMahon and Batista getting involved. Batista accidentally speared Shane, Triple H confronted Batista over it, but Batista shoved him away to go after Rhodes. Orton stole the win by grabbing HHH for a RKO.

Striker and Matthews discussed the various Backlash matches including Christian vs. ECW Champ Jack Swagger and Cena vs. Edge in a Last Man Standing Match.

Evan Bourne vs. Paul Burchill

Burchill came to the ring accompanied by Katie Lea. Bourne gained control early but as he went to the corner ropes, Katie Lea got on the apron for the distraction. Burchill grabbed him and tossed Bourne to the mat, then took over with power moves. Burchill kept Bourne grounded as he used a shortarm clothesline and then a chinlock on the mat. Burchill knocked Bourne to the corner then ran and delivered two knees into his chest. Burchill continued, using an overhead suplex and a knee drop on Bourne on the mat.

Burchill had Bourne in a headlock on the mat, but Bourne got to the bottom rope. Burchill quickly pulled him away and kept the headlock on. Bourne finally was able to stand up and punch Burchill's midsection to break free. Off the ropes, Bourne kicked Burchill hard several times, then delivered a high kick to knock him down. Bourne ducked a Burchill clothesline to kick Burchill to the outside. As Burchill came back in, Bourne ducked his clothesline then tried for an interesting pinfall opportunity. The match continued with plenty of back and forth action, and Bourne going for the Shooting Starpress, but Burchill got up to punch Bourne on the corner. Paul put Bourne in the Electric Chair, but Bourne used his skills to flip down and toss Burchill with his legs. Bourne finished him off with the Shooting Starpress.

Winner: Evan Bourne wins via pinfall over Paul Burchill.

A promo was shown for Vladimir Kozlov, kicking, punching, and breaking objects during his training. Kozlov talked about how he dominates everywhere and is looking for the ECW Championship next.

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Frankie Sloan vs. Vladimir Kozlov

Kozlov was booked for another squash match on ECW, against London's own, Frankie Sloan. Before the match could start, Kozlov took a mic and began speaking in Russian while the crowd booed. Kozlov then said Russian athletes are superior and will achieve total domination.

Kozlov beat on his lighter opponent early on and delivered a huge boot to knock him to the mat. Vladimir made quick work of the opponent. Kozlov picked up Sloan with one arm and delivered a forceful slam to the mat for the pinfall victory.

Winner: Vladimir Kozlov wins via pinfall over Frankie Sloan.

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ECW Title Match Contract Signing

ECW interim General Manager Tiffany was in the ring and introduced the challenger, Christian first. Christian came out to the roar of the crowd, dressed in street clothes. Next, Tiffany introduced the current ECW Champion, Jack Swagger. Swagger came out all smiles carrying the ECW title on his shoulder and dressed in a gray suit. Swagger and Christian continued in a staredown even though Tiffany asked them to sit. Finally they took their seats, still exchanging glares.

Tiffany told both men to sign off on the match, and that they could make any comments they wanted. Christian went first, signed the contract and slid it over to Swagger still looking at him. Swagger picked up the mic asking Christian where his one liners and wise cracks were, and asked if he had nothing to say. Swagger put the mic down and signed off on it next. Tiffany looked over the contract and nodded, then Swagger started to insult Christian and brag about his success now. Swagger said he's at the top now and achieved success while Christian was out of WWE. Swagger said he can tell just by looking at Christian that Christian realizes Swagger is faster, stronger and better than he is. Swagger told him "you can't beat me", and Christian kept glaring at him.

As Swagger, stood up to leave, Christian finally picked up the mic. Christian said he could make fun of Swagger's suit, haircut and speech impediment but it doesn't mean anything to do all that. Christian said this time Swagger can focus on running his mouth and being "bigger, better and stronger". Christian said he'll focus on this Sunday and Backlash, and making him an ex-ECW Champion. Tiffany thanked both men and left the ring. Swagger showed his ECW belt to Christian, then threw it right at him. Christian got up off the mat, and went at Swagger, with Swagger able to get the upperhand. Swagger delivered a Powerbomb on Christian through the table they signed the contract on. ECW ended with Swagger holding up his title smiling.

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Raw Preview 04.20.09

Just a week ago, the 2009 WWE Draft added and subtracted many superstars on the WWE Raw roster. Notably, WWE Womens Champion Melina, Intercontinental Champ Rey Mysterio, Kane and Chris Jericho were all drafted over to Smackdown where they will now appear on Friday nights. All was not lost though, as Raw has gained plenty of new members for its roster including US Champion MVP, Divas Champion Maryse and the WWE Champion, Triple H. For weeks now, Triple H has been involved in a bitter feud with Randy Orton and Legacy, which will lead up to another match at the Backlash PPV. That match will see Orton and Legacy team up to face Batista, Shane McMahon and Triple H in a WWE Championship six man tag match. If any member of Legacy pins anyone on HHH's team, Triple H officially loses his WWE title. Before that goes down, The Game and the Legend Killer are scheduled to face one another in a "No DQ" match on tonight's Raw. These two wrestlers have had some grueling matches and encounters in the past, but how will they fare in tonight's contest? Will Legacy, Batista or Shane McMahon become involved?

The WWE Raw roster has added several interesting new wrestlers via this past week's regular and supplemental draft. The Miz and MVP were both drafted to Raw from Smackdown and ECW respectively, possibly boosting their status under the spotlight on Monday nights. Also amongst the Raw locker rooms will be the unified tag team champions, The Colons, as well as the beautiful twin WWE divas, The Bella Twins. Also joining them will be the smallest competitor amongst them all; Hornswoggle. Hornswoggle was officially separated from his father Finlay, who is still an active member on ECW. With these new names in the mix on Raw, what will be in store for them next? Will someone else adopt Hornswoggle? Will a new tag team step up to challenge The Colons?

On last week's show, John Cena had an entertaining and exciting battle against the ECW Champion Jack Swagger. Even though no titles were on the line, both men put on a championship caliber matchup, with Cena able to make Swagger eventually tap out for the victory. Cena's win scored another draft pick for Raw, and that pick was of course, Triple H. As Cena was shocked staring down at Triple H on the ramp, the Rated-R Superstar, Edge, decided to sneak into the ring for the attack. Cena was able to turn things around, but the World Heavyweight Champion will need to gain focus on tonight's show, as he'll be defending his title against Edge at Backlash. Will Edge decided to make another appearance, or will Vickie Guerrero have a special match in store for Cena prior to Backlash?

Tune in to Monday Night Raw, tonight at 9PM EST on USA for all the action!

ECW Recap 03.17.09

ECW recap from San Antonio, TX:

Hornswoggle and Finlay were shown walking backstage as they came up to ECW GM Theodore Long dressed up as a goofy leprechaun in green, with a big green "Luck of the Irish" hat on. Teddy asked Finlay to stick around even though today's his big holiday. Finlay said he only does two things on St. Patrick's Day, fight and celebrate. He said Hornswoggle had been celebrating all day long. Just then they noticed Hornswoggle was missing. Teddy asked where he went and Finlay said "uh oh we're in trouble".

As the show opened, Todd Grisham welcome fans to San Antonio and mentioned tonight there will be a live episode of "The Dirt Sheet" by Miz & Morrison. Christian made his way down to the ring to start off the show. Highlights were shown of Christian earning his spot in the Money in the Bank Ladder Match last week by winning a tri-branded battle royal.

Christian & MVP vs. Shelton Benjamin & Mark Henry

This coming Friday on the 500th episode of Smackdown, Shelton Benjamin will defend his US title against MVP. Early on Mark Henry took advantage of MVP being hung in the ropes while the ref attended to Shelton. Henry delivered a huge headbutt to knock MVP to the mat, allowing Shelton to stay in control as ECW went to commercials.

When ECW returned, MVP was stuck in a massive bear hug by Mark Henry. Henry rammed MVP into the corner and tagged Shelton back in. The two men continued their doubleteam effort on MVP, keeping him from tagging Christian. MVP dodged Shelton on his attempt at Paydirt, then did an overhead belly-to-belly throw to toss Shelton. MVP lunged over to finally tag in Christian, who began to take it to Shelton Benjamin. Christian with momentum managed to score a DDT on Shelton out of the corner. When Christian tried for the pin, Henry got into the ring to disrupt things. MVP came in to attack Henry, and then he and Christian went to the outside, grabbing Henry's legs and pulling him out of the ring.

Christian was still legal and re-entered the ring with Shelton down. Tony Atlas got on the side apron but Christian ran over to punch him off. This allowed Shelton enough of a distraction though and he quickly grabbed Christian to hit Paydirt for the win. Shelton held up his US title and stared out at MVP, while Tony Atlas helped a hurting Mark Henry up the ramp.

Winners: Shelton Benjamin and Mark Henry win via pinfall over MVP and Christian.

A preview of "12 Rounds" was shown which featured John Cena's girlfriend Molly Porter. In the movie, Molly is taken hostage by a past enemy of John Cena's detective character. Cena's character has to go 12 rounds and attempt to find Molly.

Finlay was shown backstage looking for Hornswoggle. He came up to DJ Gabriel and Alicia Fox who both had on headphones and were grooving to loud music. Finlay yelled at them several times asking where Hornswoggle was until they removed their earphones. They said they hadn't seen the little guy then went back to their music as Finlay left.

ECW Extreme Rewind showed highlights of Evan Bourne's high flying moves in various matches.

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Various highlights from Wrestlemania XX at Madison Square Garden were shown. John Cena made his Wrestlemania debut as he captured the United States Championship. Eddie Guerrero defeated Kurt Angle and Stone Cold Steve Austin officiated a matchup between Brock Lesnar and Goldberg which ended with Austin hitting a Stone Cold Stunner on both wrestlers.

Evan Bourne vs. Jamie Noble

Bourne returned from his torn deltoid ligament injury to face Noble. Striker said it took Bourne 5 months to rehab and comeback. Backstage, Natalya and Tyson Kidd were shown watching. Noble took control early as he tripped Bourne down causing him to hit the corner face first. Noble started hammering away on Evan then put him into a headlock on the mat.

Bourne escaped the hold and began using his high flying attacks, eventually connecting on a standing Moonsault on Noble. Bourne went at Noble in the corner with Noble kicking Bourne as he came at him. Bourne responded with a high kick to knock Noble down, then went to the corner turnbuckle. Bourne connected on his trademark Shooting Starpress from the top turnbuckle then celebrated near the fans.

Winner: Evan Bourne wins via pinfall over Jamie Noble.

Finlay was shown backstage still searching for Hornswoggle when he heard a bunch of noise and a woman screaming. Finlay rushed over to find Hornswoggle up on a buffet table throwing food and beverages at Katie Lea Burchill. As Finlay pulled Hornswoggle down from the table he apologize to Katie Lea who was enraged.

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The ECW Champion Jack Swagger made his way to the top of the ramp to address the WWE Universe. Swagger said he isn't competing tonight but wanted to give the audience the chance to lay their eyes on a two time All-American champ. Swagger finished his short bit by holding up the ECW belt for all to see.

Teddy asked his assistant Tiffany backstage how her assignment was coming. Tiffany suggested they have an ECW Divas Night, where the program will be completely devoted to the WWE Divas, and will create buzz for the Divas Battle Royal at Wrestlemania 25. Suddenly, Paul Burchill burst into the office and started to yell at Teddy about Finlay bringing his kid to work. Teddy ordered a match for Paul Burchill against Finlay for what Hornswoggle did to Katie Lea.

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Highlights were shown from last night's episode of Raw where John Cena faced Edge in a non-title bout. Vickie Guerrero was the special guest referee and refused to allow Cena any pinfalls or submissions. Cena had the STF locked in on Edge, but Vickie began to choke Cena. Just then, Big Show came down to the ring and he and Edge doubleteamed Cena, tying him in the ropes. After an Edge Spear to Cena in the ropes, Show delivered several huge punches to Cena. Edge surprised Show with a Spear, driving Big Show to the match. Edge held his arms up triumphantly as Raw left the air.

Matt Striker announced that Edge, Cena and Big Show will all be present for Smackdown's 500th episode.

Finlay vs. Paul Burchill

Katie Lea accompanied her brother to the ring still complaining about Hornswoggle's antics from earlier. Hornswoggle came to the ring with Finlay. Finlay took control early on, but soon Hornswoggle was clowning around and jumped on the commentators table. Finlay looked out of the ring and Burchill came at him. Finlay managed to toss him over the ropes but on the outside, Burchill took control. In the ring, Paul applied headlocks to Finlay to wear him down on the mat. Finlay stood up and dropped to use a jawbreaker to break free.

Burchill was able to knock Finlay back to the outside, then tried to hop over the top ropes. Finlay pulled the apron cover out causing Burchill to land on his groin on it. Back in the ring, Burchill was still hurting and went at Finlay with no success. Finlay grabbed Burchill into the Celtic Cross and slammed him down for the win.

Hornswoggle got in the ring and ran around laughing and pointing at Katie Lea who glared back at him. Eventually Burchill rolled to the outside for Katie Lea to help out.

Winner: Finlay wins via pinfall over Paul Burchill.

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John Morrison & The Miz presented The Dirt Sheet with the Bella Twins in the ring with them. They started off by insulting the Texas crowd then introducing their girlfriends The Bella Twins. Miz asked "Twin A" why they chose Miz and Morrison. Brie began speaking but Nikki interrupted saying they like winners. Highlights were shown of Miz and Morrison defeating The Colons on Smackdown to defend their tag titles. Miz and Morrison then introduced their guests, The Colons and put on butt masks with Carlito style wigs. They broke out into a rap song, but just then Primo and Carlito emerged from backstage to interrupt.

The Colons came to the ring and had the Carlito's Cabana set brought with them. Carlito told Miz and Morrison they are their special guests tonight. Primo then announced they have a special challenge for them at Wrestlemania 25. Carlito suggested at Wrestlemania that both teams put their tag team titles on the line with the winner taking all and becoming the new unified tag team champions. Miz and Morrison gladly accepted saying they will prove why they're the greatest tag team of the 21st Century. Miz and Morrison did their "Be jealous" in The Colons' faces. Primo and Carlito tried to spit apples in Morrison's face but he ducked causing the chunks to hit Brie Bella. Her sister Nikki started laughing hysterically. Brie turned and looked at her sister then shoved her down to the mat.

As Nikki got back up she tackled Brie down and the two sisters began to fight it out. Both tag teams pulled the Bellas apart. Nikki left the ring with Miz and Morrison while Brie remained in the ring with The Colons.

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ECW Recap 02.17.09

ECW Recap from Spokane, WA:

ECW opened with a video package to chronicle the return of Christian to WWE, as he came out on ECW to confront the champ, Jack Swagger. Christian said he came to ECW for Swagger's title and is going to challenge whoever wins the title match at No Way Out. Teddy Long scheduled the two to fight in a non-title bout on the same show. Finlay and Hornswoggle arrived to watch the fight, and a shilaleigh shot by Finlay to Swagger's leg allowed Christian to pull off the victory.

Todd Grisham and Matt Striker welcomed fans to the show following No Way Out with a huge main event tag match: Finlay & Christian teaming up to face Mark Henry and Jack Swagger. The Boogeyman made his entrance from backstage to start the show off.

The Boogeyman vs. Paul Burchill

Katie Lea accompanied her brother to the ring for the matchup. Burchill recently went off on a lighting technician during a WWE Mobile commercial shoot. Due to the incident, Teddy scheduled Burchill in tonight's contest.

Early on Katie Lea caused distraction for Boogeyman, allowing Burchill to start hammering away on him in the corner. Boogeyman started fighting back as he punched at Burchill then whipped him hard to the corner. Boogeyman came off the ropes and did a splash into Burchill's back, then a scoop slam. With Burchill down, Boogeyman turned to go get his bag of worms. Burchill grabbed Boogeyman from behind to roll him up for a surprise pinfall.

After the victory, Burchill slid out under the ropes and backed up the ramp. Katie Lea tried to walk around the ring to join him, but Boogeyman was down near the corner and slid out of the ring to cut her off. Katie quickly ran back then into the ring. Boogeyman chased her through the ring with Katie able to escape with Burchill coming to pull her out.

Winner: Paul Burchill wins via pinfall over The Boogeyman.

Grisham and Striker discussed Swagger defeating Finlay at No Way Out, showing slideshow images from the match. Finlay had the advantage as Hornswoggle got on the apron to cheer on Finlay. Swagger shoved Finlay to the ropes causing him to hit into Hornswoggle. As Hornswoggle was knocked off the apron, Swagger took advantage hitting the Gut Wrench Powerbomb on Finlay. Grisham announced that the ECW title match between Christian and Swagger will go down on next week's ECW.

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Tommy Dreamer vs. John Morrison

The Miz accompanied Morrison to ringside for the matchup. Striker and Grisham discussed how Dreamer is winless (0-3) since making his potential retirement announcement. Early in the match, Dreamer clotheslined Morrison over the top rope out to the floor. Dreamer got onto the apron where The Miz distracted him, allowing Morrison to grab Dreamer's arm and yank him down to the floor. Back in the ring, Morrison beat on Dreamer down on the mat.

The Miz started trying to distract again from the outside, so the referee ordered him to head to the back. Dreamer started to take control after a neckbreaker on Morrison. Morrison went for a spin kick off the second rope but Dreamer ducked it. Dreamer delivered an impressive suplex on Morrison, but John got his leg on the rope for the count. Dreamer and Morrison ended up fighting on the corner, where Dreamer shoved Morrison off. As Dreamer jumped, Morrison was on his feet and kicked him in the midsection, then delivered the Moonlight Drive to win it. The Miz returned to ringisde to applaud for his partner's victory.

Winner: John Morrison wins via pinfall over Tommy Dreamer.

Backstage, Finlay and Hornswoggle were clowning around with Hornswoggle practicing his punches at Finlay, then Finlay feeding Hornswoggle some food. Christian walked in as Hornswoggle took off. Christian asked for Finlay to assure him that his son wouldn't be a distraction during their tag match tonight. Finlay said they'd keep up their end of the deal and told Christian to make sure he keeps his end up.

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An Evan Bourne Returns to ECW highlight video package was shown with no date given yet.

Caden Matthews vs. Tyson Kidd

Kidd came to the ring along with WWE Diva Natalya. Kidd used a barrage of impressive kicks to his amateur opponent, including a kick to the back of Matthews' head. Matthews crawled over to rest on the bottom rope, with Kidd jumping over the ropes to legdrop him on the apron. Kidd then did his finisher as he went onto the apron, then did a springboard elbow drop from off the side ropes.

Winner: Tyson Kidd wins via pinfall over Caden Matthews.

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Highlights were shown from Wrestlemania XIV in 1998. The event included the main event match of Shawn Michaels vs. Stone Cold Steve Austin for the WWE title, with Mike Tyson serving as the special enforcer. Austin defeated Michaels to win the WWE Title. After the match, Michaels confronted Tyson for not being on board with their plan, but Tyson ended up punching him down.

In the locker room, Tommy Dreamer was hunched over upset at himself for losing. Someone threw a towel on his shoulder. In walked Ricky Orton who told him he was the first superstar to welcome him to ECW when he came over. Ortiz told Dreamer to "rally up", trying to get him going for future matches.

The new inductees for the 2009 WWE Hall of Fame Class, Terry and Dory Funk, Jr. The Funks will be inducted by The American Dream Dusty Rhodes just one night before Wrestlemania 25.

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Highlights were shown from last week's Christian vs. Jack Swagger match. Christian picked up the win after Finlay hit Swagger in the leg with a shilaleigh.

Finlay & Christian vs. Mark Henry & Jack Swagger

Tony Atlas accompanied Henry to the ring, with Hornswoggle accompanying Finlay to the ring also. Christian and Henry started things off with Henry beating up Christian in the corners. Christian avoided a punch and punched back, angering Henry. Henry responded by throwing Christian up as he came at him off the ropes. Henry then tried to put Christian on his shoulder, with Christian sliding off and then clipping Henry's leg. Finlay tagged in and the two did a double dropkick to take Henry down. Swagger soon tagged in to face Finlay.

Finlay took control as he clotheslined Swagger down then tagged in Christian again. Christian went for the Sunset Flip to pin Swagger with Swagger kicking out. Meanwhile, Finlay had dropped down to the outside to check on Hornswoggle. Christian went over for a tag but Finlay had to climb back up. With Christian giving him a look, Finlay tagged in. ECW headed to a commercial with Finlay vs. Swagger.

ECW returned with Swagger ramming a shoulder into Finlay in the corner. As the ref backed him away, Henry took a swipe at Finlay, who turned to punch him. Swagger hammered Finlay then tossed him to the outside. Outside, Henry clobbered Finlay, then Swagger came out to ram Finlay into the apron. Swagger and Henry continued to doubleteam Finlay, punishing him and keeping him away from a tag. With Henry in control, he came off the ropes for a huge elbow drop. Finlay rolled away and was eventually able to make the tag to Christian. Swagger tagged in as well. The two went at it, with Christian able to knock Swagger to the mat. Christian went to the turnbuckle, fighting off both Mark Henry and Tony Atlas who tried to interfere. Swagger then jumped up to try for a belly to belly suplex, but Christian shoved him down. Christian did a headbutt onto Swagger from off the top rope, but Henry rushed in to break up the pin.

Henry picked up Christian for a move but Hornswoggle got into the ring and began biting Henry's leg causing Henry to drop Christian. The ref ushered Horney out as Finlay snuck in and hit Henry in the head with a shilaleigh shot. Swagger had recovered and kicked Finlay down, then went to grab Christian. As Christian got up, Swagger went for the Gut Wrench Power Bomb but Christian slid out of it. Christian reversed Swagger's finisher into one of his own to pick up the pinfall victory. ECW ended with Jack Swagger in pain laying on the outside with Christian shaking hands with Finlay and Hornswoggle.

Winners: Christian and Finlay win via pinfall over Mark Henry and Jack Swagger.

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ECW Recap 02.10.09

ECW Recap from Fresno, CA:

ECW opened with highlights from the past few week's ECW shows where Jack Swagger demanded help from Teddy Long in finding his missing ECW title. It was revealed by Finlay at the end of the program that his son Hornswoggle had jokingly swiped the championship belt. Swagger wasn't amused and shoved down Horney as he tried to hand over the belt in the ring. Finlay responded by punching Swagger down in the ring. Last week, the two met up in a non-title bout on ECW. Finlay was able to win it after Hornswoggle emerged from underneath the ring with a large shilaleigh and struck Swagger in the leg as Swagger tried to get in the ring. Finlay hit the Celtic Cross to pin Swagger handing him his first ever loss.

ECW champion Jack Swagger emerged from backstage to start the show off. Swagger looked unhappy as he walked down the ramp and got into the ring. Swagger discussed being victimized and embarassed by Finlay and Hornswoggle the past few weeks. Swagger added that now he's been forced to defend the ECW title at No Way Out against Finlay which is unfair. Swagger said he's going to take care of the real problem, then called out Hornswoggle to the ring. As Hornswoggle continued to demand Hornswoggle come out, all of a sudden fans got a huge surprise as former WWE superstar Christian emerged from backstage.

Christian came down to the ring as fans cheered him on his return. Swagger looked shocked at his arrival as Christian eyed him in the ring. Christian insulted Swagger's speech impediment and said he was there to save him from electrocuting himself with all the saliva he spits on the mic. Christian said he came to ECW for the ECW title Swagger carries. Christian then issued a challenge to whoever wins this Sunday's ECW title match. Swagger told Christian he'll be the ECW champ still after No Way Out, and that Christian won't make a dream WWE comeback at his expense. Swagger told Christian he's no threat to him, and Christian clocked him on the head with the mic. Swagger became enraged as Christian left the ring and backed up the ramp smirking.

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As ECW returned, Todd Grisham introduced a replay of what just went down between Swagger and Christian in the ring.

Backstage, GM Theodore Long was confronted by Swagger. Teddy told him he knew Christian would be there tonight since he signed him to ECW. Swagger said he was taking the rest of the night off and Teddy informed him he would be competing tonight, against Christian.

Tommy Dreamer vs. The Miz

John Morrison arrived at ringside with Miz to watch his tag partner take on Dreamer. Early on Dreamer took out his aggression on Miz, bouncing him off the crowd barrier outside the ring, then tossing him back in for more. Miz gained momentum after escaping Dreamer and then running him Bulldog style into the corner. Miz began to pummel Dreamer on the mat, then measured him for a kick to the gut.

As the match went on, Dreamer had the advantage and slammed Miz on his back to the mat for a pin. Miz kicked out so Dreamer tried to whip him to the corner. Miz reversed it to whip Dreamer instead, then ran at him with a clothesline, but Dreamer moved away. Dreamer then DDT'd Miz off the second rope to the mat. Dreamer went for the pin but Miz was able to stick a leg on the bottom rope. As Dreamer went to finish off Miz, Morrison ran around the ring and got up on the side apron. Dreamer rushed over to confront Morrison, but Miz tried to sneak attack from behind. Dreamer moved away and Miz stopped himself from hitting his own partner. Dreamer clocked Morrison to knock him off the apron, but as he turned, Miz caught him in a move bringing Dreamer's jaw down on his shoulder for the win.

Todd Grisham mentioned that Tommy Dreamer is 0-3 since making his retirement announcement a few weeks ago.

Winner: The Miz wins via pinfall over Tommy Dreamer.

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WWE Slam of the Week showed Jamie Noble's debut on ECW last week. His unfortunate fate was that his opponent was The Boogeyman. Boogeyman easily dispatched of Noble, after Jamie had put up quite a fight. Noble was able to escape the ring before Boogeyman could drool any worms on him.

Backstage Teddy Long spoke to assistant Tiffany as Jamie Noble came in the office to interrupt. Noble began whining about how last week the Boogeyman tried to shove worms down his throat. Teddy asked if Noble wanted a rematch and Noble said no, then kept complaining. A knock came at the door and Teddy said Noble would have to discuss this later since they have another appointment. In came Natalya along with a new wrestler, Tyson. Natalya said that Tyson was trained in the Dungeon by Bret Hart. Teddy said he's looking forward to good things. Tyson then told Noble "as for this big dog it's time to send him back to the pound".

Matt Striker and Todd Grisham ran down the card for this Sunday's No Way Out Pay-Per-View.

Backstage, Christian was shown preparing in the locker room as Hornswoggle came in and started maniacally running circles around him. Finlay came in next and started at Christian, then welcomed him to ECW. Finlay said he'd be watching the Swagger match tonight and hopes Christian beats him as bad as Finlay did last week. Finlay then said Christian will have to go through him for the ECW title after No Way Out.

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ECW returned with a video promo for Evan Bourne, announcing the star will make his return to ECW soon.

Bao Nguyen vs. Tyson Kidd

Tyson arrived to the ring along with Natalya to face amateur wrestler, Bao Nguyen. Tyson cheapshotted his opponent in the corner with an elbow early, then continued his onslaught. Tyson hit a high kick to Nguyen's face, as well as a dropkick from off the ropes. Tyson finished off his first opponent with a springboard elbow drop from off the side top rope.

As Natalya and Tyson celebrated in the ring, Jamie Noble arrived on the ramp and applauded the win but then signaled to Tyson he had his eyes on him.

Winner: Tyson Kidd wins via pinfall over Bao Nguyen.

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Highlights were shown from the ongoing events between Randy Orton's Legacy and the McMahons. The most recent incident saw Orton facing The Undertaker on last night's Raw. Legacy ambushed Taker in the ring and Orton prepared for the RKO. Out of nowhere, Shane McMahon appeared and attacked Orton in the ring. Orton quickly escaped, but Undertaker and Shane got the best of Rhodes and Dibiase. Shane finished things off with a message to Orton as he put a trash can in front of Dibiase in the corner, then jumped off the turnbuckle across the ring to dropkick the can into Dibiase.

Christian vs. Jack Swagger

Christian made his anticipated WWE return as he faced Swagger in a non-title bout. Early on Swagger had Christian in the corner and shoved him, prompting Christian to slap Jack in the face. Swagger charged at Christian who moved away then went for the quick roll up. Swagger managed to counter Christian with his power, but Christian displayed quick shots and kicks. As the match continued, Swagger moved to one corner with Christian in the other. Hornswoggle and Finlay came walking down the ramp to watch the match.

ECW returned from a break with Swagger locking in a hold on Christian's midsection. Hornswoggle and Finlay joined Striker and Grisham for commentary. Hornswoggle continued grunting at the match and it seemed his mic was shut off. Swagger continued to dominate and seated Christian up on the turnbuckle but Christian countered and was able to hit a spinning DDT. Later still, Christian missed on a move off the corner. Swagger went for the Powerbomb, but Christian escaped it. Swagger hit a belly to belly, with Christian able to just escape the pin. Swagger went for a splash off the corner, with Christian moving away.

The two ended up in a fight on the side apron, with Swagger wrapping himself around Christian's midsection. Christian managed to elbow Swagger off, but Swagger then tossed Christian right onto the commentators table into Finlay. Finlay got up and Hornswoggle ran away towards the crowd barrier. Back in the ring, Swagger hit a huge boot kick to Christian then went to remove the corner turnbuckle cover. The ref stopped him and tried to re-affix the cover, while Swagger went to the opposite corner and pulled that cover off. Swagger went to finish off Christian, but Hornswoggle rushed up on the apron to distract. As Swagger had Christian up, the ref rushed over to usher Hornswoggle away. Finlay came over and struck Swagger in the leg under the rope with the shilaleigh, allowing Christian to hit his finisher and win the match. Swagger has now suffered two straight losses.

Winner: Christian wins via pinfall over Jack Swagger.

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ECW Recap 02.03.09

ECW Recap from St. Louis, MO:

ECW on Sci-Fi opened with replay highlights from last week's episode where Jack Swagger asked Teddy Long to help him find his missing ECW title. With Teddy, Jack and Tiffany in the ring, Swagger grabbed the mic and demanded the thief show himself. Finlay emerged from backstage, came down to the ring and pulled out Hornswoggle who had the ECW title. In the ring, Finlay ordered his son to give the title back, but Swagger angrily shoved Hornswoggle down to the mat. Finlay clocked Swagger leaving him layed out to end last week's show.

As the show opened, Matt Striker and Todd Grisham welcomed in fans and announced tonight's main event of Finlay vs. Jack Swagger. Paul Burchill and Katie Lea made their way down to the ring for the opening bout.

Tommy Dreamer vs. Paul Burchill

In a back and forth matchup, Dreamer took control when Burchill charged at him in the corner and missed. Dreamer was able to get a quick slam from the air on Burchill but no pin. From there he hung Burchill upside down in the corner for the Tree of Woe and a running dropkick into Burchill's chest. Dreamer signaled for a finisher, but Burchill yanked his tights and pulled Dreamer into the turnbuckle. Burchill tried a quick rollup with Dreamer kicking out. Tommy then tried to hoist Burchill up on his shoulders, but Burchill elbowed Dreamer in the head and slid off. With Dreamer stunned by the elbow shot, Burchill hit a huge neckbreaker to win it.

Winner: Paul Burchill wins via pinfall over Tommy Dreamer.

Backstage, Raw's Jamie Noble talked to Teddy Long, telling him he came over to save the ECW show now that Matt Hardy left for Smackdown. Jamie said he'd lend his quality services to the show if Teddy was for it. Teddy gave him the go ahead and told him to keep on pushing. Striker and Grisham discussed Noble's potential in ECW just as Miz and Morrison came out from backstage. Tommy Dreamer was still trying to get up in the ring from his loss to Burchill.

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ECW returned with The Miz and Morrison in the ring with mics talking to Tommy Dreamer. Dreamer was down on one knee in the corner as Morrison insulted him for being overweight and washed up. Miz told Morrison he didn't want to make Dreamer cry again about how ECW is his life. Dreamer got up and walked up to both men, who continued to insult him and his career. Miz said the only people who want to see Dreamer left in ECW are his wife and kids. Dreamer became upset and pounced on Miz to attack, but Morrison jumped Dreamer from behind. The two began to beat up Dreamer with Miz eventually hitting The Reality Check to leave Dreamer laying on the mat. Morrison and Miz posed with their belts and Slammy trophies on the ring corners.

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Jamie Noble vs. Boogeyman

To his surprise, Noble had his ECW debut match against one of its strangest wrestlers, The Boogeyman. Noble went on the offensive to start it off, but Boogeyman was soon in control using power moves such as pressing Noble overhead to toss him into the ring. As Boogeyman tried to get in the ring, Noble took advantage and started kicking at him, then went to the corner for a elbow to Boogeyman's head. Noble put a headlock on Boogeyman, but Boogey used his strength to stand up and drop Noble. Boogeyman delivered chops, headbutts and clotheslines to Noble repeatedly. Boogeyman did a huge splash on Noble's back in the corner, then delivered his finisher to win it.

Boogeyman went to the corner to get his sack of worms. As he came towards Noble with a fistful of the worms, Noble quickly scurried out under the bottom rope. Boogeyman chomped down on the worms and smiled out at Noble who quickly backed up the ramp in fright.

Winner: The Boogeyman wins via pinfall over Jamie Noble.

Finlay and Hornswoggle were shown in the locker room doing calisthenics in preparation for the main event match.

Wrestlemania 25 promo video showed highlights from Wrestlemania 2 which was held in three different venues: Chicago, New York and Los Angeles. It featured Mr. T vs. Roddy Piper and Hulk Hogan defending the WWF Title in a Steel Cage against King Kong Bundy.

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ECW returned to show highlights of last night's Raw. Shane McMahon announced that he will be fighting Randy Orton at No Way Out in a No Holds Barred Match. Shane vowed to make sure Orton's unable to compete at Wrestlemania 25. Orton told Shane he can do whatever he wants to do without consequences when they fight, and that Shane should call for a hospital bed next to his dad. Legacy tried to ambush Shane in the ring, with Shane fighting them off with a Kendo stick. Later in the evening, Shane and Stephanie were walking in a hall backstage when Legacy jumped them. Shane was knocked into Stephanie who hit into a door and fell to the pavement. Orton was about to Punt Kick Shane, then noticed Steph was also down and turned his focus to go Punt kick her. Shane jumped in the way just in time, to receive a kick to his back, saving Steph. Later on, Steph told Kane he could be in the Elimination Chamber, since he called Undertaker to come wrestler Randy Orton next week.

Todd Grisham announced that "Hunt You Down" by Saliva is the official No Way Out theme song. Grisham and Striker ran down the card for No Way Out including Shane vs. Orton, Michaels vs. JBL and the two Elimination Chambers.

Todd Grisham interviewed Jack Swagger who was in the locker room, asking him about his motivation for tonight's match against Finlay. Swagger said he doesn't need any motivation and plans to humiliate Finlay tonight, while his Ogre son will realize he'll never get close to the ECW title again.

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Finlay vs. Jack Swagger

In a non-title match, Swagger took on Finlay after last week's ECW title-stealing incident. Finlay took control in the match, using an assortment of his brawling moves. Finlay kept Swagger down for some time in a Camel Clutch submission, then whipped him to the corner for more of an assault. Swagger managed to reverse the whip, tossing Finlay to the corner hard. Finlay seemed to be grimacing following the move and went to the outside to recover. Swagger followed him out to attack him even more and bring him back to the inside. In the ring, Swagger used several moves including a backwards slam onto the mat and then a bodyscissor to wrap his legs around Finlay's torso.

Finlay tried to take control of things but Swagger responded with a huge boot to Finlay. Hornswoggle emerged from under the ring to distract Swagger, allowing Finlay to get the best of him, tossing Swagger to the outside. As Finlay came out to attack him, Swagger turned the tide again and shoved Finlay into the ringpost. Swagger then went over and took Finlay's shilaleigh, then tossed it way up the ramp. Swagger got onto the ramp with Finlay in the ring. As Finlay tried for a suplex, Swagger countered and yanked Finlay down against the ropes, causing Finlay to fall back in the ring.

With the ref's attention turned towards Finlay in the ring, Hornswoggle snuck out from under the ring where Swagger was on the apron. Swagger got one leg in the ring, but Hornswoggle revealed he had a bigger shilaleigh. Horney struck Swagger in the ankle with the shilaleigh causing Swagger to start holding his ankle in pain. Finlay took advantage and was able to hoist Swagger up and hit The Celtic Cross to win it. Finlay gives Swagger his first official loss since joining ECW!

Winner: Finlay wins via pinfall over Jack Swagger.

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ECW Recap 01.06.09

ECW Recap from New Orleans, LA:

Todd Grisham and Matt Striker introduced the show including the main event of Matt Hardy vs. Mark Henry. Jack Swagger's theme music hit and Swagger made his way down to the ring.

Finlay vs. Jack Swagger

Matt Striker noted that the cocky young Swagger is undefeated and the #1 Contender for Matt Hardy's ECW title.

Early on in the match, both men used a variety of wrestling holds to try to gain the advantage. Swagger tricked Finlay on the strength test with a hand out then kicked him in the gut to gain control. Swagger locked in a headlock on Finlay down on the mat. At one point in the match, Finlay clotheslined Swagger out of the ring. Hornswoggle then got up on the apron and jumped onto Swagger landing in a pile. Swagger was back up and grabbed Hornswoggle then tossed him face first into the crowd barrier. Finlay saw what happened and came out to attack Swagger, leaving him layed out as ECW took a break.

When ECW returned, Swagger had control of the match with Finlay down in an armlock. The two got up, but Swagger pushed Finlay into the corner and continued working on Finlay's left arm. Finlay rolled out of the ring to recover, but Swagger tried to come out at him. Finlay fought back and rolled Swagger into the ring, but as Finlay got in, Swagger leveled him. After Swagger eventually missed on a leg drop, Finlay turned the tide of the match. After ramming into Swagger in the corner, Finlay hoisted Swagger up on his shoulders and rolled to slam him on the mat. Both men had several pinfall attempts with no success, as the match wore on. Finlay began to pummel Swagger when he fell into the corner, but the ref pulled Finlay away. As Swagger got up he quickly kneed Finlay in the face, then hit the Gut Wrench Powerbomb to win.

Winner: Jack Swagger wins via pinfall over Finlay.

DJ Gabriel and Alicia Fox were shown boogying backstage en route to the ring. Alicia was in wrestling gear and Grisham noted she'll be in action against Katie Lea Burchill in a WWE Divas match next.

---

Backstage, Jack Swagger burst in to talk to ECW GM Theodore Long who was with his assistant Tiffany. Swagger kept interrupting Teddy as he tried to tell him something. Swagger noted he's beaten Finlay and Ricky Ortiz and is still #1 Contender so he demanded to know when he gets a title match. Teddy told him they decided next week Swagger will face Hardy for the title. Swagger was all smiles and told them next week they'd have a new champ and new face for the ECW franchise.

Alicia Fox vs. Katie Lea Burchill

Paul Burchill was at ringside for Katie Lea, while DJ Gabriel accompanied Alicia Fox to the ring doing their disco routine down the ramp.

Katie took the upperhand right off the bat as she clocked Alicia. Alicia displayed an impressive comeback though using a flip move off the ropes to toss Katie Lea across the ring. At one point Fox was on the apron and punched Katie in the face. Paul Burchill came around the side distracting Alicia, which allowed Katie to kick Alicia off the apron. Katie attacked Alicia outside the ring then brought her back in for the fight. Alicia once again gained momentum and used a kick to the back of Katie's head followed by a pin attempt. As Alicia got up and walked towards Katie, Katie yanked Alicia's tights causing her to hit her chin on the middle rope. From there, Katie Lea dropped Alicia to the mat and pinned her for the win.

Winner: Katie Lea Burchill wins via pinfall over Alicia Fox.

---

Highlight footage was shown from last night's Raw where Chris Jericho and Randy Orton demanded that JBL's #1 Contender status be removed and Shawn Michaels be banned from title contention forever. The duo claimed that JBL and Michaels were working together in the Fatal Fourway instead of every man for himself. Stephanie McMahon arrived to let them know JBL will keep his #1 Contender spot and face Cena at the Rumble. Steph also scheduled Shawn Michaels to be Cena's tag team partner against Chris Jericho and Randy Orton later on, to test HBK's integrity. In the main event match, Shawn Michaels used a pair of Superkicks to level Jericho and Orton and made the pinfall. Backstage, JBL was interviewed by Todd Grisham. JBL informed him that he talked to Stephanie McMahon earlier and she scheduled Shawn Michaels to face John Cena next week. JBL added he'll be in Michaels' corner.

Brett Barnes vs. The Boogeyman

Barnes made his first appearance wrestling in WWE against The Boogeyman. Early on Boogeyman leveled the newcomer several times, then yanked him by the legs from the ropes to drop him to the mat. Boogeyman whipped Barnes hard to the corner, then leveled him with two vicious clotheslines. After leaping into Barnes with his elbow in the corner, The Boogeyman picked up Barnes and slammed him hard to the mat for the pinfall. Afterwards, Boogeyman retrieved his bag of worms, pulled out a handful and ate them, before drooling some into Barnes' mouth.

Winner: The Boogeyman wins via pinfall over Matt Barnes.

Matt Hardy and Mark Henry were shown walking backstage en route to the ring for their main event matchup.

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When ECW returned they showed behind the scenes footage from Mr. Kennedy's DVD movie release, Behind Enemy Lines: Colombia.

Mark Henry vs. Matt Hardy

Highlights were shown from last week when Hardy faced Henry but Jack Swagger came down to interfere, laying out Matt. Matt Hardy made his entrance first. Henry came to the ring next with Tony Atlas.

Hardy came out punching away at Henry as the bell sounded, but Henry shoved him down then to the corner. Hardy went for a right hand punch, but Henry countered and tossed him down. Henry began to headbutt and kick Matt around. Henry continued displaying his power and knocked Matt to the outside. When Henry went out he pressed Matt above his head, but Matt slid off and shoved Henry into the steel steps. Hardy took control in the ring, focusing on Henry's left knee. Matt went for a Side Effect, but Henry elbowed out of it then regained control of things.

After a commercial break, Henry continued to use his power while Matt tried to take out his leg. At one point, Henry rushed at Matt in the corner, but Matt avoided him and delivered the Bulldog from the corner. Henry countered Matt's Twist of Fate attempt by lifting him over his back to drop him to the mat. After Henry missed on a huge splash attempt off the ropes, Hardy hit his Twist of Fate out of nowhere to capture the victory!

Winner: Matt Hardy wins via pinfall over Mark Henry.

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ECW Recap 12.30.08

ECW Recap from Manchester, NH:

ECW opened with The Miz and John Morrison in the ring to present a special-edition of The Dirt Sheet to end 2008. Miz and Morrison joked that they bought everyone new cars, but instead said they were giving them The Dirt Sheet which was named Best Talk Show of 2008. Miz and Morrison listed out their New Year's resolutions with both men saying they would win the Royal Rumble. Then the two superstars made fun of various superstars by listing out various prank items they wished for in the New Year.

As they made fun of Finlay and Hornswoggle, the duo rushed down to the ring. Hornswoggle screamed into the mic and Finlay translated as he hit Morrison in the face. Miz gained an upperhand on Finlay and both men started to attack. Hornswoggle rushed out of the ring and then underneath it. Miz and Morrison went out and lifted the apron cover to find him, but instead Boogeyman's music came on. The Boogeyman came out from under the ring and chased both men out.

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Mark Henry vs. Matt Hardy

Tony Atlas accompanied Henry to the ring and then Hardy came out to the roar of the crowd. Matt offered a hand for a test of strength early on but then punched Henry in the face instead. Matt used a barrage of right hands then ran against the ropes into a Mark Henry boot. Henry started to take control from here, using his power on Matt, including a headbutt. Matt tried to mount offense but ran into Mark Henry and was knocked to the mat. Henry used a chin/headlock to try to wear him down more. Henry was able to send Matt to the corner and did a seated Splash on him off the bottom rope. Matt managed to get a leg on the ropes to prevent the pinfall.

After a commercial, Henry continued his dominance of the match, until he tried to sit splash Matt in the ring. Matt avoided it and started building up the offense, eventually hitting a Side Effect. Matt signaled for Twist of Fate, but Tony Atlas was up on the apron to distract him. Matt turned and clocked Atlas, knocking him off. Henry had recovered and tried for a clothesline, but Matt ducked him and kicked him in the gut. Matt went for Twist of Fate, but Henry shoved him away. All of a sudden, Jack Swagger had entered the ring and grabbed Hardy for the Gut Wrench Powerbomb. Mark Henry stared down Swagger as Swagger kept smiling and backed out of the ring and up the ramp.

Winner: Matt Hardy wins due to disqualification of Mark Henry when Jack Swagger interfered.

---

DJ Gabriel vs. Paul Burchill

Katie Lea accompanied her brother to the ring for his debut appearance on ECW. Gabriel emerged onto the ramp with Alicia Fox and they danced down to and inside the ring with Katie and Burchill watching.

Burchill gained the advantage as he shoved Gabriel down and then began to maul him in the corner and center of the ring. Burchill continued to wear down the new superstar with a headlock, but Gabriel used his power to stand up and chop out of it. Burchill knocked him down again and continued to beat on him. Gabriel fought back again, but Burchill responded with a suplex to bring him back to the mat. Gabriel again began to try to gain some momentum but Burchill shoved him to the ropes. As Gabriel bounced off the ropes Burchill hit him down from behind. Gabriel then countered a Burchill slam attempt by putting him on one shoulder and dropping to the mat.

From there Gabriel went to the turnbuckle for his finisher, but Burchill went over and yanked his leg to drop DJ to the mat. Burchill tried to stand up Gabriel for a DDT, but Gabriel was quick to counter it and rolled onto Burchill, holding his legs for a pinfall victory. Gabriel rolled out of the ring holding his head still and Alicia Fox slid over to congratulate him. Fox danced by Gabriel's side as they headed up the ramp and Katie Lea and her brother scowled at them from the ring.

Winner: DJ Gabriel wins via pinfall over Paul Burchill.

---

ECW returned with behind the scenes footage and interviews to promote Mr. Kennedy's upcoming DVD Behind Enemy Lines: Colombia. The DVD arrives next Tuesday, January 6, 2009.

Backstage, Boogeyman was shown feasting on worms and laughing maniacally. All of a sudden, Hornswoggle was there and began angrily running circles around Boogeyman before rushing out. Boogeyman laughed and began mumbling incoherently about Leprechauns, then sang some of the Smurfs theme song before chomping down on a worm.

Raw Rebound covered the employer-employee relationship of JBL and Shawn Michaels which included last night's Fatal Fourway match. Michaels was able to deliver a Superkick to eliminate Randy Orton which left just him and JBL in the ring. JBL ordered his employee to simply lay down for the pin. HBK wouldn't do it, but after several minutes Michaels prepared himself for a JBL clothesline. JBL leveled him then took the pinfall to become #1 Contender for Cena's World Heavyweight title.

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Finlay & The Boogeyman vs. John Morrison & The Miz
No DQ Match

During the early part of this match, Miz and Morrison were dropped to the mat and Hornswoggle came in the ring to help Finlay sit splash them. As Miz and Morrison rolled to the outside, Boogeyman hit them with a double clothesline. Boogeyman crawled under the ring, and eventually went to the other side to yank Miz' leg. Boogeyman began to pull Miz under the ring but Morrison ran over to help him. Horney leapt off the side apron and crashed onto both men. As Finlay came onto the side apron, Morrison was able to get up and run over to clip his leg. Miz took control of Finlay inside the ring. The heel team began to keep Finlay away from a tag and worked to wear him down.

Morrison had the pinfall on Finlay, but Boogeyman rushed in and kicked him to break it up, then rushed over to knock Miz off the apron. Finlay was back up and ducked a Morrison clothesline, then knocked him to the mat with repeated clotheslines. Miz entered the ring, but Finlay was able to clothesline him over the top rope. Unfortunately, as Finlay was turned to send Miz out of the ring, Morrison took advantage by grabbing him and rolling him up for a pin. Boogeyman attacked Morrison outside the ring and shoved him back in. Morrison stood up to look out at Boogeyman, but Finlay grabbed him from behind and hit the Celtic Cross. Miz was able to pull Morrison out safely and the duo backed up the ramp as Boogeyman and Finlay stared at them.

Finlay went to the audience and brought 3 kids in the ring to join in a dance with Hornswoggle and himself as ECW closed out the year.

Winners: The Miz & John Morrison win via pinfall over The Boogeyman & Finlay.

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ECW Recap 12.09.08

ECW Recap from Bridgeport, CT:

ECW opened with a promotional video for the Finlay & Hornswoggle versus Mark Henry & Tony Atlas tag team match. Highlights were shown of Mark Henry going after Hornswoggle during several incidents. Finlay vowed that they will finish what was started last week.

Todd Grisham & Matt Striker welcomed everyone to the show from Bridgeport, Connecticut. Tommy Dreamer was already in the ring, in street clothes. Dreamer discussed how for more than 15 years ECW has been his life and everything to him. All of a sudden, Vladimir Kozlov from Smackdown rushed into the ring and attacked Dreamer, leaving him layed out. Kozlov picked up the mic and began speaking incoherently, apparently challenging Matt Hardy. As Dreamer tried to get up near the ropes, Kozlov kicked him down yet again and picked up the mic saying this will be Hardy's future.

As Dreamer was still down in the ring, Kozlov left, but Jack Swagger came out from backstage down the ramp. Swagger got in the ring and kicked Dreamer to make sure he was down, then picked up Dreamer and used his finisher on him. Swagger did several taunting moves after slamming Dreamer, then left the ring all smiles.

Todd Grisham introduced highlights of last night's Slammy Awards, featuring the Miz and John Morrison winning the 2008 Tag Team of the Year Slammy. Miz taunted Festus who was a presenter, slapping him in the face and mocking him as if he were Forrest Gump. Morrison and Miz then made an "emotional acceptance" speech.

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Grisham congratulated his commentary partner Matt Striker as being part of the Best Commentary Team 2008. Striker congratulated Grisham as well as they showed off their statue award.

Jimmy Wang Yang & Kung Fu Naki vs. The Miz & John Morrison

Miz and Morrison were introduced as "2 Time Slammy Award Winners" and came down the ramp with their 2 statues.

Late in the match, Miz worked to wear down Fu Naki with a headlock. Fu Naki tried to get to his feet, but Miz promptly knocked him back down and reapplied a hold. Fu Naki struggled to try to tag Wang, but Miz picked him up. Naki shifted his weight to try a roll up pin, but Miz escaped and regained control. Miz hit a running clothesline on Fu Naki in the corner, but couldn't score the pinfall. Morrison tagged Miz' back, then Miz did a slingshot to propel Fu Naki up. Morrison clocked Fu Naki in the face then jumped over the rope to elbow drop him. Morrison worked to wear down Fu Naki's left arm for a while. Fu Naki eventually escaped and tried a roll up pin but failed. Fu Naki was able to kick Morrison away and make the tag.

Jimmy Wang Yang tagged in and went crazy as he flew around the ring kicking Miz off the apron and flipping Morrison out of the corner. Yang had the pinfall but Miz rushed in to save his partner. Fu Naki came in also but the ref started to push him back. Miz ran over and shoved Fu Naki out of the ring, then Yang shoved Miz out. Yang turned his attention to Miz, countering the Moonlight Drive. The two went to the corner with Yang doing a backflip but missing Morrison and landing on his feet. Morrison was quick to jump off the ropes and hit a springboard kick on Yang, then took the pin.

Winner: The Miz & John Morrison win via pinfall over Jimmy Wang Yang & Kung Fu Naki.

Backstage, Mark Henry was preparing in the locker room for the tag match. Tony Atlas came walking in wearing an old red, white & blue outfit he wore back in his pro wrestling days. Henry started chewing out Tony Atlas saying the match isn't about him and nobody cares about his old outfit. Henry said the outfit will be green once he squashes the leprechaun.

Slammy for Match of the Year was highlighted with Shawn Michaels vs. Ric Flair Career Threatening Match at Wrestlemania 24 winning. HBK accepted the statue, but JBL came out and took the award away saying he deserves it more for beating John Cena in the Parking Lot Brawl.

---

ECW returned with a replay of Vladimir Kozlov's earlier attack on Tommy Dreamer in the ring, followed by Kozlov challenging Matt Hardy to a match. Todd Grisham made the announcement that Matt Hardy will face Vladimir Kozlov at Armageddon now.

Backstage, Matt Hardy spoke about the new match for Armageddon. Matt said that Kozlov called him a coward since he couldn't beat him in a Beat the Clock match. Matt said we'll see what Kozlov says when he can't beat him at Armageddon.

Scott Reed vs. The Boogeyman

Boogeyman made his entrance crawling out on the ramp full of smoke, then standing to smash a huge clock over his head as the pyro went off. Boogeyman was frothing at the mouth as he came down to the ring. Matt Striker said two wrestlers he's faced in the ring who truly frightened him were Undertaker and Boogeyman.

In the match, Reed tried to attack as the bell rang but Boogeyman responded fast, eventually slamming Reed. Boogeyman whipped Reed from corner to corner and smashed into him, before picking up Reed for a two handed slam to win it. After winning, Boogeyman retrieved his bag of worms and drooled them into Reed's mouth.

Winner: The Boogeyman wins via pinfall over Scott Reed.

Backstage, Hornswoggle came in to hand a green hat to Finlay. Finlay sat down to tell Hornswoggle to listen to what he tells him to do in the ring tonight. Hornswoggle excitedly rushed out of the locker room to get to the match, with Finlay looking concerned.

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ECW returned to show the Slammy for 2008 Superstar of the Year which went to Chris Jericho. Jericho took his statue to the ring to make his acceptance speech, but John Cena rushed down to interrupt. Cena chased Jericho out into the crowd.

Finlay & Hornswoggle vs. Mark Henry & Tony Atlas

Hall of Famer Tony Atlas started out by locking up with Finlay. The twowent to the corner twice with the ref moving them away. Atlas locked a side headlock on Finlay briefly then came off the ropes twice to knock Finlay down with shoulder blocks. On the third attempt, Finlay clotheslined Atlas down then hit an elbow drop. Finlay rushed over to take a jab at Henry on the apron, prompting the big man to get into the ring. The ref worked to hold Henry back, as Hornswoggle did a Tadpole Splash off the corner onto Atlas. Henry got by the ref and shoved Finlay out of the ring, then shoved Hornswoggle down. Henry went to splash down onto Hornswoggle off the corner, but Finlay was quick to pull him out of the ring.

ECW returned from a commercial with Mark Henry in control of Finlay. He and Atlas continued working to wear down the Irishman. Finlay started to fight back and threw a shoulder into Atlas' face. Mark Henry came back in to beat Finlay around the ring, but as he ran at Finlay in the corner, Finlay met him with a boot to the face. Finlay tried to jump off the ropes at Henry, but Henry caught him in a bear hug then hit Finlay with a boot of his own. Henry kept a headlock on Finlay, until Finlay stood and dropped down to hit a jawbreaker on Henry.

Henry shoved Finlay out of the ring again, and yanked Hornswoggle into the ring. Henry prepared to hit a huge splash on Hornswoggle, but Finlay rushed into the ring to push his son out of harm's way. Henry delivered the splash on Finlay instead, then hit the World's Strongest Slam to win it.

Winners: Mark Henry & Tony Atlas win by pinfall over Hornswoggle & Finlay.

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ECW Recap 11.11.08

ECW Recap from United Kingdom:

ECW opened with a brief montage of video footage paying tribute to the US veterans and troops who have served the country and worked to preserve the nation. Video footage highlighting the Matt Hardy vs. Finlay title match was shown leading up to their main event match tonight.

John Morrison made his way down to the ring to open the show. Next out came The Miz to join his tag team partner in the ring. Jack Swagger came out next to provide their partner for the six man tag match.

Tommy Dreamer & Cryme Tyme vs. Jack Swagger, The Miz & John Morrison

At one point in the match, Shad and Jack Swagger began to slug it out in the ring. Shad ducked a clothesline by Swagger then came off the ropes to knock him down with a shoulder. Shad was able to toss Swagger out of the ring, then as Miz and Morrison came at him, tossed them both over the ropes. Shad then picked up JTG as he got in the ring and threw him outside at Swagger. Dreamer jumped off the side apron and landed in a pile on Miz and Morrison.

Later still in the match, Dreamer went on a rampage as he tossed Miz into the ring with Morrison. Dreamer threw both men into the same corner then tried to finish off Morrison. The Miz came over the break it up. Swagger and Cryme Tyme returned to the ring. With a melee going on, Swagger tried to take out Shad. Dreamer was able to get over and DDT Swagger down. Morrison still legal went at Dreamer with a spin kick off the ropes. Dreamer ducked and caught Morrison to set him up for a finisher, but Morrison countered with the Moonlight Drive to win it.

Winners: The Miz, John Morrison and Jack Swagger win via pinfall over Tommy Dreamer & Cryme Tyme.

Todd Grisham interviewed Matt Hardy who was backstage. Hardy told Finlay he's in for the fight of his life and will need all the Luck O' the Irish, but at the end of the night he'll still be ECW champ. Matt Striker narrated footage of Matt Hardy vs. Finlay simulated on the WWE Smackdown vs Raw 2009 video game.

---

Video was shown highlighting the rise of John Cena and discussing his WWE work ethic. JBL, Batista, Shawn Michaels, Triple H, Maria and other superstars as well as Cena's family provided comments on the superstar. Cena will go up against Chris Jericho for his World Heavyweight title at Survivor Series in Cena's hometown of Boston.

Oliver Biney vs. Mark Henry

With Tony Atlas accompanying him to ringside, Henry took an amateur wrestler from Leeds, England. Henry took control from the start, beating Biney down with an arm to the back. Henry kicked Biney while he was down on the mat several times, then stood him to whip him to the corner. Henry walked over, picked up Biney and shoved him into the corner for more punishment. Henry backed up and charged at Biney, who avoided the massive wrestler. Henry responded with a quick clothesline, then the World's Strongest Slam.

Winner: Mark Henry wins via pinfall over Oliver Biney.

Todd Grisham left the commentators' table and got in the ring to interview Mark Henry. Grisham asked Henry who he thinks will win the ECW title match later, Hardy or Finlay. Henry just breathed heavy into the mic, glared at Grisham, then exited the ring. Atlas smirked at Grisham and followed Henry out. Matt Striker discussed last week's main event which saw Finlay defeat Mark Henry to earn the #1 Contender's spot tonight. The "Tale of the Tape" was shown with both Hardy and Finlay at 6'2 and about 235 lbs.

Viva La Raza DVD advertisement was shown. The special new 3 disc DVD chronicles the legacy of the late, great Eddie Guerrero.

---

Finlay vs. Matt Hardy
ECW Title Match

Hornswoggle accompanied Finlay to the ring for the main event title match. The crowd seemed split between the two wrestlers, with some cheering for Finlay, others for Hardy. The contest was back and forth early on, with Finlay using his brawling/grappling style to take Matt down. Matt was able to turn the tide as he tossed Finlay to the ropes then tossed him out over the top rope. The ref began counting out Finlay, and Hornswoggle disappeared under the ring as ECW took a commercial break.

ECW returned with Matt in control in the ring. Hardy punched Finlay to the corner, then whipped him to the opposite corner for a running clothesline and bulldog. After a failed pin, Matt signaled for Twist of Fate. Hornswoggle appeared on the apron to distract Matt, eventually allowing Finlay to toss Matt into the corner ringpost. Hornswoggle jumped off the apron to avoid Hardy hitting him, and apparently hurt his ankle in the process. Finlay took out his frustration on Hardy back in the ring. The match went to the outside with Finlay regaining control after a clothesline.

The match continued to go back and forth, in and out of the ring. Hornswoggle stayed holding his ankle near the commentators' table. After another break, Finlay was still in control in the ring and went for a backslide pin. Matt kicked out. Hornswoggle had taken a position at the side of the ring again to cheer on his father. Finlay countered a Twist of Fate and hit the Celtic Cross, but Matt again kicked out of a pin. Matt managed to gain control and did a Moonsault off the top rope but couldn't score a 3 count.

Matt tried to whip Finlay to the corner, Finlay used his leg to stop him from hitting the corner. The two collided, with Finlay falling on top of Matt. The ref started to count a pin but saw Matt's leg on the rope. Finlay stood Matt up to finish him off, but Matt quickly countered with Twist of Fate to win it.

Winner: Matt Hardy wins via pinfall over Finlay to retain the ECW Championship.

Following Matt's victory, a humbled Finlay offered Matt a handshake for his win. Matt celebrated his victory in the ring as he and Finlay hugged.

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ECW Recap 10.21.08

ECW Recap from Laredo, TX:

ECW opened with the current ECW champion, Matt Hardy, being introduced. Hardy made his way to the ring in street clothes carrying his belt. Matt Striker and Todd Grisham reviewed Matt's possible opponents for Cyber Sunday: Evan Bourne, Finlay or Mark Henry. The WWE Universe will vote for Matt's opponent who he'll defend the title against this Sunday.

Matt mentioned Evan Bourne and Finlay briefly, then turned his attention to Mark Henry. Matt said he wants Mark Henry again due to his beatdown he gave him in the ring. Matt pulled out a cell and said he would give Mark Henry his vote. All of a sudden, Finlay and Hornswoggle came to the ring. Finlay began saying he's never had a one-on-one against Matt for the ECW title, and if they do at Cyber Sunday, he'll become the new champ. Evan Bourne came down to confront both men. Finlay joked about Bourne's height and weight, but Bourne quipped back Finlay can have jokes but Bourne will get the votes. Mark Henry and Tony Atlas came to the ramp next, and Henry proclaimed that should he win the vote, he'll easily win back his ECW title. Matt Hardy closed the segment saying even if Mark Henry wins the vote, it's all he'll win, because Matt Hardy will still be ECW champ.

Matt Striker announced the blockbuster main event, a Triple Threat match between Mark Henry, Finlay and Evan Bourne. Fans will get a preview of the three possible opponents for Matt Hardy at the Pay-Per-View this Sunday.

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Brett Badery vs. Jack Swagger

Swagger locked Badery in a hold in the corner of the ring, then cockily taunted him. Badery tried to push Swagger and Swagger responded by picking up Badery in a running Bear Hug to ram him into the corner. After just a few more moves, Swagger quickly finished him off with a Powerbomb.

Todd Grisham tried to interview Swagger in the ring afterwards about Tommy Dreamer. Swagger responded by asking "Tommy who?" then exited the ring smiling cockily.

Winner: Jack Swagger wins via pinfall over Brett Badery.

Lena Yada interviewed Miz & Morrison backstage. Miz told Lena she should be using her time to text her vote for the Miz & Morrison to fight at Cyber Sunday against Cryme Tyme. Morrison added that Cryme Tyme was voting, but the person they stole their cell phone from canceled their service. Miz told Lena to watch his upcoming match against Shad to see proof of how awesome he is.

---

Shad of Cryme Tyme vs. The Miz

Footage was shown of last week's Matt Hardy & Finlay tag match against Miz & Morrison. Mike Knox distracted Finlay and took his shilaleigh, allowing Morrison to deliver a roundhouse kick. Cryme Tyme appeared from under the ring and handed a 2nd shilaleigh to Finlay which he used to clock Morrison for the win. Afterwards, Finlay knocked out Cryme Tyme with the shilaleigh as well.

In tonight's one-on-one contest, the feuding tag teams were represented. At one point, Miz knocked Shad to the outside, then used a baseball slide dropkick to knock him into the barricade. Back in the ring, Shad was able to regain control as he tossed Miz headfirst into the turnbuckles, then elbowed him down off the ropes. Shad seemed to finish off Miz, but Morrison got up on the side apron to distract. Miz tried to run off the side ropes, but JTG tripped him from the outside. Miz got back up and Shad delivered a huge Powerbomb. Shad had the pin but Miz kicked out at 2 1/2.

Shad stood back up near the ropes, as the ref started to check on Miz. Morrison got on the apron behind Shad, and delivered his roundhouse kick to Shad's back. The ref caught Morrison's interference and called for the bell to DQ Miz. JTG got in the ring and delivered a drop kick to Miz, and Miz rolled out of the ring. Both teams glared at each other, yelling and jawing as the decision was announced.

Winner: Shad wins due to disqualification of The Miz when John Morrison interfered.

---

Matt Striker and Todd Grisham introduced a video package of celebrities discussing John Cena. Included in the footage were Ben Stiller, Snoop Dogg, Carl Edwards, Marc Ecko, the Jonas Brothers, Tony Hawk, Kelly Carlson and Sara Jean Underwood of Playboy. The footage ended with "Cena Returns", but no date given for Cena's return. Grisham and Striker discussed Cyber Sunday matches including the fans voting for the special guest ref for the World Heavyweight match between Chris Jericho and Batista. Will it be Randy Orton, Shawn Michaels or Stone Cold Steve Austin? Striker and Grisham ran down the remainder of the card including Undertaker vs. Big Show with fans voting on match type via WWE.com.

Backstage, Ricky Ortiz was talking to Tiffany asking about the outfit she had on. Tiffany said she was a "Go-Go Dancer" for the 31 days of Halloween. Suddenly, Finlay and Hornswoggle came up to her, with Hornswoggle holding out a bag and laughing maniacally. Tiffany realized he was trick or treating and knocked on ECW GM Teddy Long's door. Out came Teddy dressed up as the legendary Shaft. Teddy gave Hornswoggle a bunch of candy on demand, but Hornswoggle kept demanding more. Finally Teddy told him enough. As Finlay and Hornswoggle left, Teddy began to say "there goes one bad mother---" and Tiffany told him to shut his mouth.

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Evan Bourne vs. Finlay vs. Mark Henry
Triple Threat match

Footage was shown of Finlay and Hornswoggle celebrating up the ramp after last week's match. Mark Henry rushed out to attack Finlay from behind leaving him down on the ramp. Also several weeks ago, Mark Henry delivered several slams on Evan Bourne before Matt Hardy rushed down to intervene.

Early on, Finlay and Bourne tried to doubleteam Henry, but he fought both men off then started to pound on each in different corners of the ring. Henry continued to beat up Finlay in the corner, then whipped him to the other side. Henry then picked up Bourne and ran across the ring to smash him into Finlay in the corner. Finally, Evan Bourne was able to yank down the top rope as Mark Henry came at him, causing Henry to fall over and outside. Finlay attacked Bourne from behind, then began to beat him around the ring. Bourne was able to escape by using a headscissors to toss Finlay towards the ropes. Finlay crashed into Mark Henry who was standing up on the outside.

Bourne pinned Finlay but only for a 2 count. Mark Henry got back into the ring to fight Finlay, after pulling Bourne outside. Bourne quickly got back into the ring and ran at Henry. As Bourne jumped, Henry caught him then tried to throw him. Instead Bourne flipped onto Finlay for a pin. Henry came over and stomped on Bourne to break up the pinfall and ECW went to commercial. ECW resumed and Bourne/Finlay were eventually able to do a double running baseball sliding kick to knock Henry to the outside. Finlay began to dominate Bourne inside the ring, but not for long because Henry had gotten back in. Henry got Finlay up for a back slam, but Bourne jumped up on front to try to weight Henry down. Henry dropped down to slam Bourne to the mat and tossed Finlay in the process. Henry continued to beat up Finlay with several vicious moves.

At one point, Henry grabbed Hornswoggle from the outside and was about to slam him inside the ring. Finlay ran over for the save, clipping Henry's leg. Finlay went over to knock down Tony Atlas, and as the ref was distracted, he grabbed his shilaleigh to clock Henry over the head. Finlay stumbled over towards the ropes, where Evan Bourne jumped off the corner turnbuckle to knee him down. To the crowd's delight, Bourne hit his trademark Shooting Starpress onto Mark Henry from off the turnbuckle, then took the pin!

Winner: Evan Bourne wins via pinfall over Mark Henry & Finlay.