WWE Superstars Recap 03.18.10

WWE Superstars Recap 03.18.10

Right after the opening video, Kane's pyro exploded to bring the Big Red Monster to the ring. Todd Grisham and Matt Striker were on hand for the commentary. They discussed how the intensity is starting to rise for Wrestlemania 26.

Shelton Benjamin vs. Kane

The Gold Standard and Big Red Monster will be just two of the participants in Wrestlemania 26's MITB Ladder match. Tonight the two Smackdown stars locked up on Superstars. Before the first commercial, Kane had Shelton down on the mat and climbed the corner. Shelton got up from the mat, then ran and jumped up to kick Kane, sending him off the corner to the outside floor. From there, Shelton got on the side apron and jumped up to springboard reverse flip off the top rope onto Kane on the outside.

In the closing moments of the match, Kane hit a sidewalk slam, then jumped off the corner to clothesline Shelton down. He set up for the Chokeslam, but Shelton was close enough to grab the ropes. Kane kicked him in the gut them sent him against the ropes. As Shelton came back, Kane tossed him up and Shelton grabbed Kane's neck to turn it into a DDT for the nearfall. Shelton ran at Kane for a Paydirt, but Kane shoved him away. Kane went for the Chokeslam, but Shelton fought out. Shelton went for a kick, but Kane grabbed his leg, so Shelton spun and kicked Kane down with the other leg. Finally after several more exchanges, Kane slapped on the chokeslam and hit it for the win.

Winner: Kane wins via pinfall over Shelton Benjamin.

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Superstars returned with the Wrestlemania XXVI recall from 1998 in Boston, MA. Pete Rose was dissing the Boston Red Sox and called the crowd the "city of losers". Just then, Kane arrived to the ring with Paul Bearer. Kane grabbed Rose and hit him with a Tombstone Piledriver to the crowd's delight.

Michael Cole announced that Pete Rose will be the final Raw guest host before Wrestlemania 26.

The Bella Twins vs. Katie Lea & Jillian Hall

Katie Lea took a mic and announced her psychic powers said that they were going to beat the Bellas 1-2- . Before she could say 3, Jillian grabbed the mic and said she loved that song and was going to sing it. The Bella came out mid song to interrupt her awful singing.

During the match, the camera got a shot of the Bella Twins' mother who Lawler pointed. The Bellas hit several doubleteam maneuvers on both Jillian and Katie during the match. At one point, Brie was up on the corner with Jillian in the ring. Katie Lea came over on the apron, and Brie kicked her off. Brie grabbed Jillian's hair and got on her shoulders from the corner, but Jillian dropped her onto the mat.

In the closing moments, Katie Lea came in to break up a pin. As she went against the ropes, one of the Bellas grabbed her leg, and the other dropkicked her out of the ring. Jillian tried to plant the legal Bella face first on the mat, but the Bella blocked, then got on Jillian, putting her legs on Jillians to secure the pinfall.

Winners: The Bella Twins win via pinfall over Katie Lea & Jillian.

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A Chris Jericho World Heavyweight Champion promo video was shown, with Jericho saying he's the best in the world at what he does. Lawler and Cole said Jericho has his work cut out from him at Wrestlemania 26.

Next up was Raw Rebound which featured the Vince McMahon & Bret Hart contract signing presided over by guest host Stone Cold Steve Austin. Austin announced that Stu Hart will go into the WWE Hall of Fame. Bret Hart asked for the Wrestlemania 26 match to be No Holds Barred. Vince agreed to it and both men signed off. Bret revealed at the end of the show that his leg was never really broken, as he took the cast off. Bret said tonight Vince screwed Vince, then beat McMahon with the cast to leave him down in the ring.

Lawler and Cole reviewed the lineup of matches for Wrestlemania 26 including Bret Hart versus Vince McMahon, Shawn Michaels vs. The Undertaker (Career vs. The Streak) and John Cena versus Batista for the WWE Championship.

Jack Swagger arrived to the ring for the main event before Superstars went to commercial.

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Christian, Mark Henry & Yoshi Tatsu vs. William Regal, Jack Swagger & Zack Ryder

In a bit of a Money in the Bank preview between two favorites to win, Christian and Jack Swagger lead their respective teams in this Raw contest.

Early on in the match, Ryder backed over to his corner to tag out, bringing in Swagger. Christian backed up and made a tag to Henry. Henry started to dominate things. Zack Ryder came in to try to do a double suplex with Swagger, but Henry blocked it then suplexed both guys instead. All of the heels got tossed out of the ring right before a commercial.

Christian and Regal were fighting after a commercial break. Swagger came in to continue the heels' working over of Christian. Captain Charisma eventually made the tag out to Yoshi, who came in to take an eventual beating from Swagger. Regal hit a cheap shot on Yoshi from the apron as the ref was distracted. Ryder tagged in for a bit, then Regal next as the heels tried to keep Yoshi away from a tag.

Regal had a near fall after slamming Yoshi back. Swagger came back in yet again for a bit of work, punching Yoshi in the corner. Ryder and Regal kicked Yoshi was the ref was occupied talking to Swagger. Swagger went for his splash move off the corner with Yoshi sticking both knees up. Yoshi crawled over to make the hot tag to Christian, but Ryder tagged in as well. Ryder tried to go off the corner, but Christian hit him with a Flapjack. Christian was able to knock Swagger out of the ring, then Regal off the apron. Christian went for a Crossbody on Christian but missed. Ryder hit a neckbreaker and had a near fall.

Ryder went for Zack Attack, but Christian turned it into a Powerbomb. Henry, Yoshi, Regal and Swagger all fought in the ring then moved to the outside. Christian gained the upperhand after a flying elbow to Ryder's jaw. He got up and hit Killswitch to win it.

Winners: Mark Henry, Yoshi Tatsu & Christian win via pinfall over Jack Swagger, William Regal & Zack Ryder.

Cole and Lawler reviewed the match finish via replay. Christian, Henry and Yoshi all celebrated in the ring as Ryder, Rosa, Regal and Swagger backed up the ramp angrily.

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WWE Releases Helms, Burchill & Maria

Earlier on Friday, WWE announced the release of three of its superstars. Former ECW wrestlers Gregory "Hurricane" Helms and Paul "The Ripper" Burchill were let go in addition to Smackdown diva Maria Kanellis. While Helms and Burchill hadn't been seen for several weeks on the air, Maria was recently seen as part of a small storyline on Smackdown involving Matt Hardy. She fought in several mixed gender tag matches along with Hardy and The Great Khali against the Hart Dynasty on both Smackdown and Superstars.

Each of the superstars' release notices on WWE.com followed the usual format:

"WWE has come to terms on the release of _____ as of today February 26, 2010. We wish _____ the best in all future endeavors."

Gregory Helms was with WWE since 2001, after appearing in WCW from 99-01. His Hurricane character was a popular superhero, which also incorporated Molly Holly, Rosey and Stacey Keibler at various times. Hurricane held the tag titles twice, once with Kane, once with Rosey, as well as holding the WWE Cruiserweight title twice, European title once and Hardcore title also one time. Helms was last seen in the ring doing an interview of Ezekiel Jackson. The interview came just a day or so after news of Helms' arrest during a drunken taxi ride with Chris Jericho and Matt Hardy. William Regal who was in the ring during the spot, commented about Helms' recent trouble. Helms noted during the interview he was going to put the incident behind him and move on. He ended up getting slammed to the mat by Jackson to end the segment. Helms wasn't seen in any matches after that.

Paul Burchill came to WWE in 2005 and played a pirate character early on. He eventually moved on from that and started appearing with his on-air sister, Katie Lea. Burchill and Helms had been involved in a rivalry on the now-removed ECW show on SyFy. It involved Burchill trying to unmask The Hurricane and expose that he was really Gregory Helms. They even had a match in which Helms retired Burchill from the show. Not long after, Burchill re-appeared as a masked villain type character named "The Ripper". The Ripper was unmasked by Hurricane and Burchill was forced to leave again. Soon after that, Katie Lea Burchill appeared as a new diva on Raw. There's no news of Katie Lea being released as of yet. It appears that with the closing down of ECW, Helms and Burchill had nowhere else to go with WWE.

The most shocking of the three releases might be that of Maria Kanellis, who was recently promoted as part of NBC's "Celebrity Apprentice" by Donald Trump. She's been with WWE since back in 2004-05 as a losing contestant in the diva search, then a backstage interviewer, and eventually a girlfriend/valet of several wrestlers including Santino Marella, Dolph Ziggler and Matt Hardy. She's been a member of the Raw and Smackdown rosters during her career which also included posing for the 2008 Playboy cover and spread. On Smackdown, Maria was introduced by Matt Hardy as his recent Valentine, and the two were considered a couple. After a loss in the ring on Smackdown, Maria blamed herself for the loss. Hardy consoled her, but Maria didn't seem happy and ended up pushing past fellow divas Michelle McCool and Layla backstage. According to her wiki entry, Mara's got a debut album called "Sevin Sins" releasing on April 13th, so that may explain her being let go to work on the music career.

With the release of these three, it seems that once again WWE's loss is TNA's gain. It won't be surprising to see one or all three of these re-surface on TNA's show in the near future.

WWE Superstars Recap 02.04.10

WWE Superstars Recap 02.04.10

After the pyro had eruped to kick off the show, Michael Cole welcomed fans to Superstars on the Road to Wrestlemania. To kick things off, a WWE Raw divas tag match. Kelly Kelly and Eve Torres came down the ramp to start off the show. Michael Cole remarked how it's unbelievable we are 52 days away from Wrestlemania 26.

Eve Torres & Kelly Kelly vs. Alicia Fox & Katie Lea

Eve had a nice display of moves during the match including a backwards Celtic Cross slam with Katie on her shoulders. She went to the top of the corner for a Moonsault, but Alicia Fox began shaking the rope from the apron. Eve jumped down and grabbed Alicia by her hair, and Katie ran over to dump Eve over the top rope. Eve fell and hit her leg on the side apron then hit the floor where Alicia attacked a bit. Katie Lea rolled Eve into the ring and targeted her hurt knee. Alicia continued the work on Eve's hurt knee using a half Boston Crab on her.

Eve finally escaped by using her legs to kick Alicia against the ropes and then throwing her with her feet. Eve jumped to make the hot tag to Kelly. Kelly came in on fire and eventually did her handspring move to hip splash Alicia in the corner. She did a sunset flip style pin but Katie Lea ran in to kick her and break it up. Eve rushed back in to help but got kicked in the leg by Katie. Kelly tossed Katie out of the ring and then got a foot up to kick Alicia as she came at her. Kelly jumped off the corner for a cross body but Alicia rolled through and stole the pinfall win.

Winners: Katie Lea & Alicia Fox win via pinfall over Eve Torres & Kelly Kelly.

Cole and Lawler mentioned that the main event tonight is from Smackdown when John Morrison teams up with Matt Hardy and Great Khali to take on The Hart Dynasty and Drew McIntyre.

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Evan Bourne vs. Carlito

Early on it was back and forth, but Evan Bourne eventually had control as he knocked Carlito to the outside. Bourne went for a leap over the top rope only to be shoved from the air by Carlito. Lucky for Bourne he landed on his two feet then ducked a Carlito clothesline. Bourne quickly jumped and kneed Carlito to the floor. Bourne rolled Carlito into the ring and climbed up for the Shooting Starpress aka "Air Bourne". Carlito rolled outside the ring to escape the move and catch a breather as Superstars went to break.

Back from commercial, Bourne came back when he was whipped to the corner by hitting a headscissors move. He stayed in control until Carlito blasted him with a foot to the face for a near fall. Carlito repeatedly kicked away on Bourne in the corner of the ring and was warned by the ref. Next up was a slingshot into the bottom ropes for Bourne's face. Carlito worked on Bourne on the mat with a series of submission holds. Bourne got to his feet and broke out by kicking Carlito in the leg.

In the closing moments, Bourne jumped on Carlito's back and took him down into a near fall. Carlito had a near fall of his own moments later. Bourne went over and rolled onto the apron. Carlito tried a suplex over the top rope, but Carlito countered with a knee to Carlito's skull and then a roundhouse kick. He went to the corner again for the high risk Air Bourne, and Carlito got up to kick him. Carlito climbed up on the corner ropes and went for the Superplex. Bourne fought back and turned a Sunset flip into a Powerbomb from the top rope. He climbed the corner yet again and this time got Air Bourne for the win.

Winner: Evan Bourne wins via pinfall over Carlito.

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WWE Superstars returned with an Edge promotional video showcasing the Rated-R Superstar's achievements as a multi-time champion, Money in the Bank "Ultimate Opportunist". They showed him spearing down various stars including Matt Hardy, Undertaker and Rey Mysterio. They also showed some clips of Edge's surprise entry in the Royal Rumble 2010 at the #29 spot to eliminate Chris Jericho and then John Cena to win the Royal Rumble.

Matt Striker and Todd Grisham were now on hand for commentary. They introduced the Raw Rebound which highlighted Bret Hart returning to the ring to confront Vince McMahon. Vince called Bret "pathetic" in the ring and said he wasn't going to induct Stu Hart into the WWE Hall of Fame after all. This enraged The Hitman and he began to attack the WWE Chairman. Batista hit the ring and gave Bret a beatdown, then restrained him so Vince McMahon could spit in his face.

Tomorrow night, Smackdown will show exclusive footage of what happened when Raw went off the air Monday night between Batista and John Cena. Matt Striker said the footage is disturbing and destructive.

John Morrison was introduced and was the first man out for the main event tag match, before Superstars went to break. The first commercial shown was for the new WWE show "WWE NXT" on SyFy, coming in several weeks to replace ECW.

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Matt Hardy, The Great Khali & John Morrison vs. Drew McIntyre & The Hart Dynasty

Back from break, Great Khali and Matt Hardy were in the ring to have a dance session with Ranjin Singh. The Hart Dynasty theme song hit and they were out to the ring next. Last to the ring was the Intercontinental champ, Drew McIntyre.

The match started off with Hardy and Kidd, then turned into Morrison against Kidd. Kidd gained control of Morrison then McIntyre tagged in to further the punishment. Morrison managed a tag to Great Khali though, who headbutted McIntyre down, then held up McIntyre for Hardy to hit with an elbow drop. Hardy had a near fall, but way too early to put away McIntyre. Hardy used a side headlock on McIntyre, but got kicked in the back by Kidd, then hit in the face with McIntyre's boot kick. DH Smith tagged in to start beating on Hardy, hitting a series of moves including a suplex going to a commercial break.

Back from break, Smith had a side headlock on Hardy down on the mat, working to wear him down. Hardy eventually escaped and in came Morrison to go at Kidd. Kidd whipped Morrison to the corner then ran at him. Morrison jumped up to try to get his legs on Kidd, but Kidd grabbed his legs and threw Morrison over the ropes to the floor. While Kidd distracted the ref, Natalya ran over and kicked Morrison in the gut. After tagging back in, Drew McIntyre rammed Morrison into the side apron for good measure. After some more beatdown from McIntyre, DH Smith tagged in. Morrison made his comeback here as he hit a kick to Smith's head from a handstand on the mat. Morrison made the hot tag to Hardy who came in to go at Smith, eventually hitting a running bulldog for a near fall.

Hardy hit the Side Effect for another near fall, but this time Kidd and McIntyre rushed in to break the pinfall up. They ran over and both punched Khali off the apron. McIntyre instructed DH Smith to put Hardy up in a Bear Hug so he and Kidd could hit a doubleteam finisher. As Kidd and McIntyre went against the ropes though, Khali was there to trip both down and yank them out of the ring. Smith turned and saw it, then came over to grab Khali's hair. Khali responded with a chop to Smith's head, stunning him a bit. Meanwhile, Morrison ran and jumped onto Kidd and McIntyre outside the ring landing in a heap. Hardy managed to hit Twist of Fate in the ring, then tagged Khali in for the Punjabi Plunge and pinfall.

Winners: Matt Hardy, The Great Khali & John Morrison win via pinfall over Tyson Kidd, DH Smith and Drew McIntyre.

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ECW Recap 11.10.09

ECW Recap from Sheffield, UK:

ECW opened with a Veteran's Day video to remember veteran soldiers who have helped preserve the nation. Commentators Josh Matthews and Byron Saxon were on hand, talking up tonight's main event William Regal versus Christian for the ECW title. Tony Atlas was introduced so he could introduce the Abraham Washington show.

Abraham's guest tonight was Yoshi Tatsu. Abe started insulting the England audience saying they have free health care but nobody seems to go to the dentist ever. Abe generated a ton of heat as the crowd booed him continuously. Yoshi kept saying "thank you" over and over with Washington finally saying they've had enough thank you's. Abe asked for Yoshi's pick on who'd win the ECW title match tonight. Yoshi said Regal's tough but Christian's a great champion so he'll win. Abe and Yoshi did a "you don't understand the words coming out of my mouth" routine like Rush Hour. Washington berated Yoshi saying he's no Jackie Chan. Yoshi called Abe a stupid Chris Tucker. Finally, Washington said he's better than Tucker and told Atlas to end the show.

Matthews and Saxon previewed tonight's ECW title match, showing a video of how Regal has been hell bent on getting another shot at the title. Tonight is Regal's last chance to win the championship.

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Goldust vs. Paul Burchill

Burchill was introduced as "The Ripper, Paul Burchill." Next week will be the showdown between Burchill and Hurricane. If Burchill loses he and Katie Lea must leave ECW, if Hurricane loses he must unmask.

Goldust started building momentum late as he clotheslined Burchill down. He went for a bulldog, with Burchill shoving him off, then kicking him. All of a sudden, Hurricane's theme music hit. The Hurricane came rushing onto the ramp from backstage, then started to circle around the ring. The distraction caused Burchill to lose his concentration. Goldust hit his finisher in the process to pick up the pinfall victory.

Winner: Goldust wins via pinfall over Paul Burchill.

Highlights were shown of last week's Shelton Benjamin-Zack Ryder match with Rosa Mendes at ringside. Ryder became distracted as he was ogling Rosa from the ropes area, allowing Shelton to capitalize and win the match. Those two will have a rematch on Thursday's WWE Superstars.

Ryder was backstage as Rosa Mendes walked up to him backstage. Zack told Rosa he thought she did a great job as guest announcer last week. She started talking at him a mile a minute, and then Zack confessed he likes her. He said anytime she wants to come down to the ring and be in his corner she can. Rosa said maybe and left. Ryder started daydreaming of he and Rosa rubbing nose to nose, holding hands and skipping down the hall together.

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William Regal spoke to ECW GM Tiffany backstage. Regal said he knows that Tiffany is probably upset with him getting another ECW title shot despite her not wanting to grant it. He said she should consider how great it'll be to have a virtual god like himself holding the title after tonight. Tiffany said she is looking forward to starting their working relationship fresh, whether Regal wins the title or not. Regal scowled as he walked off.

Jason Blackwell vs. Vance Archer

A local amateur from Sheffield was newcomer Vance Archer's victim tonight. Archer cut a promo earlier in the day saying "Who is Vance Archer? My opponent is about to find out." Archer connected on a huge clothesline to level Blackwell early. Blackwell got tossed down by his hair to the mat, then picked up and thrown around before Vance started to stomp away on him. He choked him in the corner with a boot to the throat, then used a belly to belly slam. Archer closed with his inverted DDT style move.

Winner: Vance Archer wins via pinfall over Jason Blackwell.

Matthews reminded fans to go check out WWE.com for extensive Survivor Series coverage for the history of the event.

Christian was shown walking backstage looking all business. His match against Regal with the ECW title on the line is next.

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William Regal vs. Christian
ECW Title Match

Regal made his way to the ring first to a mixture of cheers and jeers. Next out was Christian to a louder ovation. ECW ring announcer Lauren Mayhew introduced both competitors. Prior to the contest they mentioned Regal grew up in Blackpool, England about 100 miles away from tonight's arena location. Also of note, Vladimir Kozlov and Ezekiel Jackson were banned from ringside.

Christian and Regal traded offense which saw two commercial breaks during the action. Regal had a near fall after the second break, then began to apply a hold down on the mat. Christian got to his feet and punched away at Regal to keep him at bay. Christian rushed Regal and was met by a forearm shiver. Regal started to step on Christian's face near the ropes. He stayed in control and had several more attempted pins.

Regal went towards Christian in a corner and got hit instead. Christian tried his Sunset Flip pin move off the corner, but Regal stayed up and then sat down. He had a pinfall and used the ropes as leverage with the ref stopping at 2. Christian countered with a pinfall on Regal, but he escaped. Regal had a vicious slam move and a near fall again.

Christian gained momentum from the apron and then hit several missile dropkicks off the corner, but couldn't capture the pinfall. Christian was ready for a Killswitch but got punched down by Regal. Regal went for a knee trembler with Christian avoiding it, but as Regal came back around he caught him with the knee. Regal made a cover with Christian getting his arm up. Christian went for Killswitch, but Regal countered into a Regal Stretch right near the bottom rope. Christian struggled to reach the rope but couldn't, so instead he grabbed Regal's arm to break free. Christian hit a big dropkick as Regal came at him, then a European uppercut off the ropes.

Another Killswitch attempt was countered into a powerslam move by Regal. Regal set up for the knee trembler again as Christian got up. Christian avoided it and then quickly connected on the Killswitch. The crowd celebrated as Christian hoisted the title up high to close the show.

Winner: Christian wins via pinfall over William Regal to retain the ECW Championship.

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ECW Recap 07.09.09

ECW Recap from Bakersfield, CA:

Josh Matthews said tonight we find out who challenges Tommy Dreamer at Night of Champions for the ECW Title. Christian will face Vladimir Kozlov for the opportunity. The Bella Twins came out to the ring to start off the show. The Bellas joked with the crowd when they pretended to be each other after introductions.

Nikki Bella vs. Katie Lea Burchill

Brie Bella remained at ringside for the matchup. Early on, Katie Lea tossed Nikki outside through the ropes before jumping out to attack her. Back in the ring, Katie continued the punishment as she threw Nikki face first into the turnbuckle. Katie Lea used her knee to apply pressure on Nikki in the corner, then hit a backbreaker in the ring. Nikki started to fight back and used the ropes to do an impressive flip move into an armbar takedown.

At one point, Katie Lea tried to dump Nikki over the ropes and Nikki slipped while trying to hold on at the apron. As Nikki climbed back into the ring, Katie Lea grabbed her and hit a DDT from the middle ropes. After a failed pinfall by Katie, Nikki rolled to the outside and Brie swapped herself into the match. Brie kicked Katie in the gut then hit a faceplant to the mat to win it.

Winner: Nikki Bella wins via pinfall over Katie Lea Burchill.

Matt Striker and Josh Matthews revisited highlights from last week's Yoshi Tatsu vs. Shelton Benjamin match. After Shelton mocked the newcomer in the ring with bows and sumo moves, Yoshi delivered a serious kick to KO Shelton and scored the winning pin.

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Yoshi Tatsu vs. Shelton Benjamin

Shelton was much more serious for this matchup as the bell rang. He immediately shoved Yoshi down to the mat, then later rammed Yoshi to the corner to hammer on him. Yoshi began to fight back, getting in some nice moves. Yoshi went for a flying belly splash after running off the ropes, and Shelton stuck his knees up. Shelton again took control, using an elbow drop and knees to Yoshi. At one point, Yoshi managed to counter Shelton's move off the ropes, and then did a backslide pin. Shelton rolled out of it and as he got up Yoshi went for the roundhouse kick move. Shelton quickly backed away and rolled out of the ring as ECW went to commercial.

ECW returned with Shelton in control in the ring, but Yoshi again used a high flying attack. As he tried for a dropkick after whipping Shelton to the ropes, Shelton held himself on the ropes, and Yoshi fell short. Shelton picked up Yoshi in an electric chair type move and dropped him face first to the turnbuckle. From there, Shelton applied a headlock down on the mat.

Yoshi gained some momentum yet again, landing some never seen before moves including a spinning heelkick off the ropes to take Benjamin down. Shelton kicked out before 3. Shelton came back again with a belly-to-belly suplex to toss Yoshi. Shelton went for a kick to Yoshi, with Yoshi ducking it, and Yoshi went for his kick. Shelton ducked that, then grabbed Yoshi to hit Paydirt.

Winner: Shelton Benjamin wins via pinfall over Yoshi Tatsu.

A promo video was shown of Vladimir Kozlov doing his fierce training in the gym. Josh Matthews reminded fans of the main event featuring Kozlov and Christian.

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Highlights were shown from this past week's Monday Night Raw, which was hosted by special guest, The Million Dollar Man. Dibiase set up a match with Cody Rhodes against Mark Henry, and one with Ted Dibiase, Jr. facing Randy Orton. Later in the night, John Cena and Triple H went toe-to-toe for the #1 Contender spot for the WWE Title. The match was Pay-Per-View quality, and Legacy rushed in to interfere before a winner could be decided. Orton thought he had outsmarted everyone, getting on the mic to say now nobody will face him at Night of Champions. Million Dollar Man came out to clarify that now there will be a Triple Threat match at Night of Champions, with John Cena, Triple H and Randy Orton fighting over the WWE Title.

Jack Meridol vs. Ezekiel Jackson

Jackson made his ECW debut tonight since being drafted over from Smackdown. Earlier in the day, Jackson cut a promo saying the only name you need to remember in WWE history is Ezekiel. In his first match, he faced a local amateur wrestler. Meridol tried to mount some offense when he jumped at Jackson after coming off the ropes. Jackson caught him on a shoulder then rammed him into the corner. Ezekiel used a vicious bear hug to choke Meridol out then rammed him to another corner. Jackson continued the beatdown, throwing his opponent around the ring like a ragdoll. Ezekiel finished off Meridol with a one-armed slam to the mat.

Winner: Ezekiel Jackson wins via pinfall over Jack Meridol.

Backstage, some WWE personnel and staff were talking when a girl was heard screaming and someone was shown falling off a ladder. Everyone rushed over to her, but just then The Hurricane came walking out with the girl on his shoulder as if he had caught her. He set her down and rushed off, with the girl saying for him to wait. ECW GM Tiffany came rushing over to ask what happened but nobody could ell her.

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A replay was shown of the Hurricane incident where he saved a woman from falling off a ladder backstage.

Abraham Washington did his in-ring show, The Abraham Washington Show. Washington said everyone's talking about him since last week, including Jimmy Kimmel and David Letterman. Washington said since he's getting such high ratings, it's time to have a high profile guest. ECW Champion Tommy Dreamer was introduced. Washington called Dreamer the "biggest" star in ECW history, then said he meant that literally, saying Dreamer looked like he was carrying twins. Washington then called Dreamer a senior citizen in ECW. Dreamer mentioned how ECW was the starting place for stars like CM Punk, Jack Swagger and Chris Jericho. Washington then asked Dreamer if his toughest opponent was Jenny Craig. Dreamer asked if Washington spraypainted his hair on tonight. Washington then asked Dreamer to pick tonight's winner in the #1 Contender match. Dreamer said hopefully it's Christian, because it'd be an honor to face him again.

Just then, Kozlov's music hit and Kozlov came down to the ring to get in Dreamer's face. Abraham Washington told them to hold on so they didn't mess up the set. Washington then introduced the two men to each other, saying Kozlov is the man Dreamer we'll be facing at Night of Champions. Dreamer and Kozlov continued staring each other down as ECW went to break.

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Christian vs. Vladimir Kozlov
#1 Contender's Match for ECW Title

The winner of this match will go on to face Tommy Dreamer for the ECW Title at Night of Champions. Tommy Dreamer sat ringside with Striker and Matthews to provide guest commentary. Early on, both men traded offense, with Christian escaping Kozlov in the corner, then sliding under Kozlov's legs to punch him in the face. Kozlov quickly dropped Christian to the mat, then picked him in a Torture Rack on his shoulder. Christian managed to knock Kozlov out of the ring, then did a sliding dropkick. Kozlov got on the apron again, and as Christian ran into him, Kozlov headbutted, then tossed Christian over his back to the floor.

Back in the ring, Kozlov again put on the Torture Rack backbreaker with Christian up on his shoulder. Kozlov used a bear hug type move down on the mat, with Christian able to stand up and escape it briefly. Kozlov got Christian up on his shoulders, with Christian sliding off. The two men started fighting on the outside, with Christian able to shove Kozlov into the ringpost. Back in the ring, Christian did a missile dropkick off the corner but failed at the pin attempt.

Christian jumped onto the corner for his Sunset Flip attempt, but Kozlov quickly hammered him on the back. Christian then pulled the turnbuckle cover off as Kozlov pulled him off the corner and hit a backbreaker. After a failed pin by Kozlov he whipped Christian to the corner then charged. Christian avoided it and Kozlov hit the exposed steel. Christian hit the Killswitch immediately and won it by pinfall.

Winner: Christian wins via pinfall over Vladimir Kozlov to become #1 Contender for the ECW Title.

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WWE Superstars Recap 04.30.09

The third installment of WWE Superstars on WGN America featured several exciting matches including one half of the unified tag team champs, Carlito, doing battle with Ted Dibiase. In addition, Evan Bourne and Paul Burchill brought their feud from the land of extreme to the show for Round 2. Here's the recaps and results for 04/30/09 episode of Superstars.

Gail Kim & Maria vs. Alicia Fox & Michelle McCool

Alicia Fox made her debut as a Smackdown diva wrestling alongside Michelle McCool. Michelle McCool taunted Gail Kim at one point in the match as she punched her. The ref stopped Gail from getting involved as Michelle continued trying to dominate Maria. When Gail was finally able to tag in, she had the serious momentum. Unfortunately, as Gail jumped off the corner at Michelle, McCool gave her a huge boot to the face and then scored the winning pinfall for her team in under 5 minutes.

Winners: Michelle McCool & Alicia Fox win via pinfall over Gail Kim & Maria.

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Evan Bourne vs. Paul Burchill

Katie Lea accompanied Burchill to the ring for the match, as Paul looked to avenge his loss to Bourne on ECW a few weeks back. Burchill seemed to dominate and hobble Bourne in this matchup, with Katie Lea looking on and trying to help him win it. At one point, Burchill locked in a legscissors on Bourne's injured leg. Bourne finally managed to break it and began kicking Burchill. One kick sent Burchill out of the ring. Bourne was able to hop up on one leg onto the second rope. Burchill came over to try for the Superplex, but Bourne countered him and ended up hitting his trademark Shooting Starpress to capture another victory.

Winner: Evan Bourne wins via pinfall over Paul Burchill.

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Carlito vs. Ted Dibiase Jr.

Carlito was cheered on by Primo Colon from ringside, while Cody Rhodes supported his Legacy partner Ted Dibiase. Amazingly, there wasn't much involvement from either of the outside tag partners in the match. Carlito had momentum as the match neared the 10 minute mark. Carlito hit a knee lift, a clothesline, and a DDT on Dibiase but failed to get the 3 count. Carlito charged at Dibiase when both men got up, and Dibiase scoop slammed him to the mat. From there, Dibiase whipped Carlito to the ropes. Carlito tried to jump back at Dibiase with an elbow to the face, but Dibiase moved away from him and grabbed him to hit Dream Street for the victory.

Winner: Ted Dibiase wins via pinfall over Carltio.

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Evan Bourne Keeps Rising!

If you've watched ECW on Sci-Fi Tuesday nights for the past several months or so then you've definitely been treated to the latest WWE spectacle known as Evan Bourne. He may have had the slight misfortune of having some of his earlier ECW matches called by Mike Adamle, but Bourne has continued to grown and shine week after week. Just last night he went up against Paul Burchill in a match that lasted longer than you might expect when Burchill's involved. It saw Burchill dominate at points, keeping Bourne grounded in a headlock, and using various power moves to bully Bourne around the ring. Burchill wreally as no slouch in this match using moves that aren't seen night in and night out on WWE shows. One example was a suplex where he hooked Bourne's leg, then tossed Bourne back over his shoulders. Bourne kept trying to build momentum, but Burchill continued to level him. With Katie Lea lurking outside the ring, Bourne had a lot to contend with during the contest.

Despite Katie Lea's interference and Burchill putting on a decent showing in front of his hometown crowd in London, the fans were clearly behind Evan "Air" Bourne. At one point, Bourne ducked a clothesline and grabbed Burchill, wrapping him up for one of the slickest reversal-pinfalls you've never seen before. Bourne's crowning moment in his matches is the Shooting Starpress which the fans get quite revved up for. But throughout his match last night Bourne was "oohing" and "ahhing" the fans similar to when Michael Jordan, Allen Iverson or Lebron James made moves on the basketball courts. Bourne seems to be doing this consistently, and attracting more fan attention. Last week, Bourne and John Morrison put on a stellar match on ECW which included moves like a flying bodypress onto Morrison to take him to the outside over the ropes. Both those guys are known for great performances in matches, but together they amazed the crowd and did some real risk taking to entertain the fans. It'd be real interesting to see how Bourne would fare in a Money in the Bank or other Extreme rules match, and if he gets to Wrestlemania 26's version, I'd put money on Bourne to win MITB (with the exception that he isn't ready to win a major title beyond ECW).

Evan Bourne (real name: Matt Sydal) is always fun to watch and definitely someone the fans look forward to when he shows up. My only gripe: the WWE really needs to reward this guy for the work he's putting in. He may still be a newcomer and not have the seniority or veteran status of other guys, but his high-flying, quick-paced offense is worth the price of admission. WWE should have taken the opportunity to draft Bourne to Raw or Smackdown during this past year's WWE Draft 2009. If not that, the Cruiserweight title may need to be reinstated, and Evan Bourne would make a great choice for its new champion in 2009. On a very interesting side note, TNA (Total Nonstop Action wrestling) may have lost out on a real top notch competitor who brings fans to shows, because Bourne wrestling as Lance Sydal for TNA, was used mainly as a "jobber". Wasted talent by TNA is now WWE's gain, and Bourne's stock should only continue to rise.

Read more about Evan Bourne's career at his Wikipedia entry here.

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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WWE Divas & NCAA Basketball

The WWE Divas are celebrating the 2009 NCAA College Basketball Tournament in stunning fashion. The 2009 Men's College Basketball tourney started on Thursday and WWE has tied in the theme with its hottest women wrestlers. Over at WWE.com each of the divas are shown wearing various NCAA team jerseys. Examples include WWE Diva Rosa Mendes in University of North Carolina's jersey and Lillian Garcia in University of Connecticut Huskies' attire.

Here's which sexy WWE divas are representing which NCAA college teams:

Alicia Fox - Texas University
Beth Phoenix - Syracuse University
Brie Bella - Duke University
Eve - Wake Forest University
Katie Lea Burchill - Purdue University
Jillian Hall - Louisville Cardinals
Lillian Garcia - University of CT
Maria Kanellis - Illinois
Melina Perez - Gonzaga
Michelle McCool - Florida State University
Natalya Neidhart - Oklahoma University
Nikki Bella - Arizona State
Rosa Mendes - University of North Carolina
Mickie James - University of Missouri
Tiffany (Taryn Terrell) - Louisiana State University (LSU)

View the full WWE Divas NCAA B-ball gallery here

For those interested in watching this year's NCAA Tournament action, all games are being streamed online live. Check out the live video player at http://mmod.ncaa.com/

ECW Recap 02.24.09

ECW Recap from Nashville, TN:

ECW on Sci-Fi opened with a highlight video to promote the ECW Title match between Jack Swagger and Christian on tonight's show. Over the past weeks the two have fought with Christian pinning Swagger in two non-title bouts. Both times Finlay and Hornswoggle were involved in the outcome. Todd Grisham and Matt Striker welcomed fans to Nashville, Tennessee.

DJ Gabriel vs. Mark Henry

WWE Diva Alicia Fox danced along with Gabriel in the ring before Mark Henry and Tony Atlas emerged from backstage to come to the ring. Grisham noted that Gabriel's undefeated since arriving to ECW but tonight would be a tougher task than usual. Henry tossed Gabriel around the ring early on, causing Gabriel to back to the corner and regroup. Henry was distracted momentarily by Alicia Fox, and Gabriel tried to capitalize. His dropkick attempt failed, and Henry started to pound on DJ even more in the corner, then whipped him to the opposite side.

Alicia Fox started to pound on the mat to get the fans to back Gabriel. Gabriel stood up while in a headlock but Henry shoved him to the corner. Gabirel was able to avoid Henry in the corner, then began to rush at Henry with dropkicks, and an uppercut forearm. Gabriel kept trying to knock Henry down, then went to the corner. Gabriel flew off the corner at Henry who caught him from the air, then turned it into the World's Strongest Slam to win it.

Winner: Mark Henry wins via pinfall over DJ Gabriel.

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ECW returned with an Evan Bourne highlight reel and the message "Evan Bourne Returns ECW" with no date given.

Matt Boyce vs. Tyson Kidd

Kidd was accompanied to the ring by Natalya Neidhart. Amateur Matt Boyce took on the new ECW star tonight. Early on, Kidd took Boyce down to the mat and tried to wear him down. Kidd hid behind the ref as Boyce went after him, then came back to drag him down with an armlock. Boyce grabbed the bottom rope to break it. Boyce mounted a brief offensive strike, but Kidd kicked him hard to the mat, then kicked him in the chest. Kidd used a hard elbow on Boyce's chest then did a headscissors down on the mat. To finish things off, Kidd hit a spinning dropkick followed by jumping from the apron over the top rope to elbow drop Boyce. Grisham noted that Kidd is undefeated so far in ECW.

Winner: Tyson Kidd wins via pinfall over Matt Boyce.

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ECW returned with highlights of the Randy Orton-McMahons and Triple H saga. In the latest incidents, Orton delivered a Punt Kick to Shane in the ring, then RKO'd Stephanie on Raw. This prompted Triple H to storm down to the ring with Orton and Legacy leaving the ring quick. Last night's Raw saw Orton arrive to the ring at the end of Raw with a Sledgehammer, joined by Rhodes and Dibiase. Triple H arrived to the arena and headed straight to the ring with a Sledgehammer as well. Orton negotiated when HHH got to the ring, tossing his Sledgehammer over the top rope. HHH dropped his outside and then got into the ring, but as he took off his leather jacket, he revealed another Sledgehammer from behind his back. HHH chased Dibiase and Orton around backstage, smashing through doors, mirrors and eventually their getaway car's window as Raw ended.

Tommy Dreamer vs. Paul Burchill

Dreamer continued to chase a win since announcing he would retire in June if he can't recapture the ECW title. Burchill arrived to the ring with sister Katie Lea Burchill. Last week, Burchill picked up a surprise win over Boogeyman because Boogey went for his bag of worms early. Boogeyman chased Katie Lea around the ring with his bag of worms, and she managed to get up the ramp with Paul.

In tonight's match, Dreamer gained momentum after Burchill had dominated from the onset. Dreamer charged at Burchill in the corner and missed, and Burchill tried for a move off the corner. Dreamer avoided it and grabbed Burchill's legs then catapulted him into the corner. Dreamer hung Burchill upside down in the Tree of Woe, then ran for a dropkick. Katie Lea had come around the ring and pulled Burchill to the side causing Dreamer to miss on the dropkick. All of a sudden, the lights dimmed with someone grabbing Katie Lea's leg and dragging her underneath the ring. Katie Lea began screaming and managed to escape, then fell back up the ramp. Boogeyman emerged from under the ring as Katie Lea took off for backstage. Meanwhile, Burchill was distracted looking out at Boogey. Dreamer grabbed Burchill and DDT'd him to pick up a much needed victory.

Winner: Tommy Dreamer wins via pinfall over Paul Burchill.

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A promo video revealed that Wrestlemania 25 is just 40 days away.

Christian vs. Jack Swagger
ECW Title Match

Christian arrived to the ring first hungry for the ECW title just 3 weeks into his WWE return. The champ Swagger came out next, cocky as ever and looking intent to successfully defeat Christian.

In the highly-anticipated title match, Swagger brought Christian down to the mat early and wrapped his arms around Christian's midsecton. Christian stood up and tried to fight out, eventually grabbing Swagger's wrist to break out. Swagger slammed Christian down yet again then let out a cocky roar to the crowd. Christian recovered in the corner to start chest chopping Swagger, then hit a spin kick as he came off the ropes at Swagger. With Christian having the upperhand for some time, Swagger regained control then started whipping Christian corner to corner. Christian managed to grab the top rope as Swagger charged at him and pulled it down for Swagger to fall out. Christian quickly ran and jumped off the corner splashing down on Swagger outside as ECW went to commercial.

ECW returned with Swagger turning the tide on Christian as he clubbed Christian with a hard forearm to his back. Swagger landed a splash off the corner. Christian rolled onto the apron and started to stand up but Swagger ran across from the ropes and knocked him down with a shoulder. The two started to battle outside the ring, with Christian missing as he ran at Swagger near the steps. Christian appeared to hurt his left shoulder/arm. Swagger rolled in as the ref began the count, with Christian able to roll in at 8. Swagger immediately picked up Christian to slam him to the mat then pulled Christian's hurt arm back to work on it more. Swagger continued to take advantage of the injury down on the mat and around the ring. Swagger slammed Christian hard against the bottom rope as ECW took another break.

ECW returned with Striker noting that Christian may have a dislocated or separated shoulder. Christian was able to jump off the corner and knock Swagger down, then began trying to pump up his hurt arm to get the bloo flowing. Christian started punching at Swagger then tripped him down against the bottom rope. Christian stood on Swagger, then was able to yank him down against the top rope. As Christian got into the ring he went to the corner for a diving headbutt with Swagger avoiding it. Christian countered the Gut Wrench Powerbomb by Swagger, then ducked a clothesline to reverse DDT Swagger down. Swagger kicked out of the pinfall. The two traded pinfall attempts with Swagger trying for a splash off the corner and Christian putting his knees up.

Christian eventually connected on a diving headbutt, but Swagger barely got out at 2 from the pinfall. Christian was able to DDT Swagger from the corner, but held his arm after because of the pain. Christian tried again for the pin with Swagger escaping. Swagger took control by shoving Christian into the corner ring post, again hurting Christian's left shoulder. Swagger went for the Powerbomb, but Christian flipped out of it and tried for his own move, but then backed off as his arm started to hurt. Swagger took advantage by grabbing Christian to finally hit the Gut Wrench Powerbomb.

Winner: Jack Swagger wins via pinfall over Christian to retain the ECW title.

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ECW Recap 01.13.09

ECW Recap from Sioux City, IA:

ECW opened with a promo video to hype the Jack Swagger versus Matt Hardy ECW Title match on the show. Last week, GM Theodore Long told Swagger he could have his title match. Swagger told Teddy he'd be the new champ and new face of ECW.

Alicia Fox and DJ Gabriel were already in the ring dancing as ECW kicked off the show. Paul Burchill and his sister Katie Lea headed to the ring next for a mixed tag team match.

DJ Gabriel & Alicia Fox vs. Paul Burchill & Katie Lea
Mixed Tag Team Match

Early on the two divas knocked heads, prompting Alicia Fox to crawl over for a tag. Burchill charged into the ring and immediately delivered a double knee to Gabriel, then began beating him around the ring. Burchill continued to punish Gabriel, but Gabriel was able to reverse Burchill's attempt to whip him to the ropes. Gabriel slid under Burchill's legs then got back up to backdrop Burchill. As Gabriel made the cover, Katie Lea entered the ring to kick Gabriel off. Alicia Fox rushed into the ring and jumped up on Katie from behind. The two WWE Divas toppled outside of the ring. Meanwhile, DJ Gabriel managed to climb the corner turnbuckle and jumped off to hit Burchill with a flying European uppercut to get the winning pinfall.

Winners: DJ Gabriel and Alicia Fox win via pinfall over Paul Burchill & Katie Lea.

Todd Grisham introduced footage to announce that Stone Cold Steve Austin will be inducted into the 2009 WWE Hall of Fame Class, April 4, 2009 in Houston, Texas. Highlights from Austin's career were shown including his battles with the likes of The Rock, Bret Hart, Kurt Angle and Vince McMahon.

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Tommy Dreamer arrived down to the ring dressed in a suit and tie. Dreamer grabbed a mic and spoke to the fans about being able to entertain wrestling fans for 19 years. An emotional Dreamer said he has an amazing bond with the fans, and that people say he's the heart and soul of ECW. Dreamer acknowledged his friends, wife and daughters as making it all worthwhile. Dreamer said he came to the point in his life when he had to reflect deep inside himself, and doesn't think he's the same man he used to be.

Dreamer announced he doesn't feel he has what it takes to compete with the younger talent any more. Dreamer says his WWE contract expires June 2009, and that gives him 5 months to prove himself. Dreamer says he's been training harder than ever to achieve one goal: win the ECW title. Dreamer says if he doesn't win the title in the next 5 months, he'll leave ECW.

Highlight video was shown of the undefeated superstar, Jack Swagger.

---

Backstage, Ricky Ortiz was shown with a smitten Tiffany. Ortiz took both of Tiffany's hands in his, then moved in close about to kiss her. Just then a loud noise sounded out and Hornswoggle was shown running around them, laughing maniacally. Hornswoggle ran off with Tiffany looking upset. Finlay came rushing in chasing after his son.

Sammy Savard vs. The Boogeyman

Boogeyman reacted to Savard's early attack by strutting around dancing. Boogeyman then worked on Savard in the various corners of the ring, tossing him around and splashing onto his back. As Savard stood up, Boogeyman picked him up on one shoulder and slammed him down for the quick pinfall victory. After the bell, Boogeyman grabbed a handful of worms from his bag, put them in his mouth and drooled them onto Savard's face and mouth.

Winner: The Boogeyman wins via pinfall over Sammy Savard.

Smackdown Rewind was shown with highlight footage of the 1/09/09 police videotape showing Jeff Hardy and Beth talking to a police officer after they were involved in a hit and run car accident. Jeff later said he was lucky not to be seriously hurt and plans to still defend his WWE Title at the Royal Rumble.

Todd Grisham and Matt Striker spoke to Matt Hardy who was live backstage. They asked how the Jeff accident situation will affect him in tonight's match with Swagger. Matt said he won't use it as an excuse to not perform his best tonight. Hardy said Swagger's accomplished a lot, except defeating him. Hardy said he's one thing that Swagger isn't: the ECW Champion.

---

Promotional highlight video was shown of Mr. McMahon firing various individuals on Raw. Vince returns to Raw this coming Monday.

Jack Swagger vs. Matt Hardy
ECW Title Match

Both men gave their all in this contest, which was a true back and forth affair. As the match wore on, Swagger missed on an elbow drop. Hardy began to punch away but Swagger blocked him then delivered a huge boot. Hardy kicked out of a pinfall attempt and ECW went to commercial.

As ECW returned, Swagger had Matt down in the ring holding him in an armlock. Swagger whipped Hardy to the ropes, but Hardy made a comeback and was able to knock Swagger down. Hardy climbed the corner but Swagger ran over to punch him then climbed up to Superplex Hardy off the corner. Swagger continued to work on Hardy's arm. The two ended up in the ring corner yet again with Swagger sitting Matt up on the turnbuckle. Swagger climbed up to attempt another Suplerplex, but Hardy fought him off, flipped underneath Swagger and was able to Powerbomb him to the mat. In the process, Swagger ripped off the turnbuckle cover and tossed it out of the ring. Matt barely got the 3 count afterwards, with Swagger escaping it.

Swagger seemed to counter a Twist of Fate and slammed Matt down, but couldn't score the pinfall. Hardy countered a Swagger move and hit a Side Russian Leg Sweep. Swagger tried to counter Matt's Bulldog attempt from the corner by shoving him to the ropes, but Matt came back with a Side Effect and yet another near pinfall. Swagger went for a quick pin attempt pulling Matt's tights up. After that Swagger did a Splash from off the corner, but again failed to get the pinfall.

Swagger charged at Hardy in the corner with Hardy giving an elbow to counter. As Swagger fell back, Matt climbed the corner backwards for a flip. Swagger got up and put Hardy on his shoulders then walked over to the exposed turnbuckle, dropping Matt face first into the steel. Matt was out of it, allowing Swagger to grab him and hit the Gut Wrench Powerbomb for the pinfall victory.

Winner: Jack Swagger wins via pinfall over Matt Hardy to become new ECW Champion.

As ECW was ending, Swagger headed up the ramp cockily displaying his ECW title to the fans. Matt Striker said the face of ECW has now changed with an arrogant young and undefeated champion.

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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.

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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.

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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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