Smackdown's Ricky Ortiz Released by WWE

There will be no more "Big O" or ralley towel waving in the ring from superstar Ricky Ortiz. In what many people feel was a surprise move, World Wrestling Entertainment released wrestler Ricky Ortiz on Saturday. Ortiz was originally part of the "ECW Superstar Initiative" and after decent performances there, was eventually moved to Smackdown. WWE gave him the standard release statement that we have commonly seen given to other superstars and divas in the past:

WWE has come to terms on the release of SmackDown Superstar Ricky Ortiz as of today, Aug. 8, 2009. We wish Ricky the best in all future endeavors

When Ortiz first started with WWE on the ECW program, he started out on a major hot, undefeated streak, until he and Jack Swagger had a memorable first match. Swagger got the win to further propel his standing, and Ortiz sort of faded a bit after this. He was moved to Smackdown's brand in April 09' as part of the WWE draft. On Smackdown, his last match ever was a squash effort by Great Khali in under a minute. Strangely enough, The Brian Kendrick, also recently released, lost his last match in just a few seconds after the bell rang to Kofi Kingston on Raw.

According to reports from various wrestling news sites, the move to release Ortiz was a business decision rather than a cost-cutting one. The WWE has recently been trimming the rosters down by eliminating any talent they feel are not good investments. Best wishes to Ricky Ortiz, and again WWE's loss may become their competition's gain...

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

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 12.16.08

ECW Recap from Baltimore, MD:

Todd Grisham and Matt Striker opened the show discussing the unforgettable 2008 Armageddon Pay-Per-View where Jeff Hardy became the new WWE champ. Tonight there will be a six man tag match with CM Punk, Kofi Kingston & Ricky Ortiz facing Jack Swagger, John Morrison & The Miz.

Matt Hardy came down to the ring to start off the show. Hardy spoke to the crowd about how great the past 2 days have been, now that Jeff is WWE Champion. Matt said despite embarking on solo careers, he and Jeff came back together as champions this past Sunday. As Matt started to speak about the big celebration for Smackdown this Friday, Chavo Guerrero came out to interrupt.

Chavo said his aunt Vickie Guerrero, the GM of Smackdown, asked him to come out and take care of Matt, because Jeff stole the title from Edge. Chavo said Edge will reclaim the WWE title, but later tonight Chavo will challenge Matt for his ECW title and take it. Just then, ECW GM Theodore Long came out dressed as a Christmas elf. Teddy said that he did agree to give Chavo a championship match, but not later, right now. Teddy then asked Chavo to deliver a message to Vickie to lay off the holiday cookies, since she's on a diet.

Chavo Guerrero vs. Matt Hardy
ECW Title Match

As the match opened, Chavo tried to pummel Matt in the corner, but Matt gained control and soon went for Twist of Fate. Chavo countered, sending Matt to the ropes, but as Chavo ran at him, Matt ducked down and threw Chavo out of the ring. Chavo got up on the apron and yanked Matt's left arm down hard against the rope, then slid into the ring to put Matt in an armlock, targeting the injury.

Throughout a commercial break, Chavo continued working on Hardy's arm. Matt continued to nurse the injury as he tried to fight back. Matt got to the corner where he elbowed Chavo as he rushed him. Matt climbed the corner, but Chavo went up behind him, punching away. Matt was able to land a Super Side Russian leg sweep off the second rope. With Matt in control, he tried for a Twist of Fate. Chavo countered, sent Matt to the ropes and went for the Tres Amigos suplexes. Out of nowhere, Matt was able to hit the Twist of Fate and then pinned Chavo for the win.

Winner: Matt Hardy wins via pinfall over Chavo Guerrero to retain the ECW title.

Raw Rebound showed recaps from WWE Raw. Orton was being interviewed backstage, when Batista showed up to accept his challenge. Orton slapped The Animal and took off out to the ring. Batista followed but was ambushed by Rhodes and Manu. John Cena rushed in to help Batista fend off the attackers. Later backstage, Batista thanked Cena, but they were informed they'd be in a Handicap match against Orton, Rhodes & Manu later. In the match, Batista and Cena seemed to have it won, but Orton shoved Manu into Batista's back, then hit the RKO. Cena was tossed to the outside where Manu and Rhodes beat on him, as Orton ran and delivered a punt kick to Batista in the ring. Orton, Rhodes and Manu were victorious, leaving Cena to tend to Batista in the ring.

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The WWE Rewind showed last week's return ECW match from The Boogeyman. Boogeyman defeated an amateur opponent in a strong comeback, before eating a handful of worms and drooling them into his opponents mouth.

Gavin Spears vs. Finlay

Prior to the match, Hornswoggle jumped up on the commentators' table and splashed water in Striker's face, before stealing their Slammy Award. Highlights were shown from the Belfast Brawl at Armageddon where Finlay told Hornswoggle to stay backstage. Hornswoggle ignored Finlay and was able to supply him a shilaleigh to crack over Henry's head, allowing Finlay to win.

At one point in the match, the action went to the outside when Spears went after Hornswoggle for interfering. Finlay came out to protect his son but had to leapfrog him, then wound up getting a knee to his midsection from Spears. Spears started to punish Finlay inside the ring with a chin lock and knees to his back. Finlay finally got out of it with a jawbreaker followed by two clotheslines. Soon after, Finlay put Spears on his shoulders then slammed Spears down. Afterwards, Finlay whipped Spears to the corner, and then hoisted him on his shoulders to hit the Celtic Cross.

After the victory, Hornswoggle got in the ring to dance around with the Slammy and taunt Matt Striker.

Winner: Finlay wins via pinfall over Gavin Spears.

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Todd Grisham and Matt Striker returned to discuss the tough situation Shawn Michaels is in now, having to become JBL's employee due to financial troubles. Backstage, DJ Gabriel and Alicia Fox were shown dancing at a holiday-decorated set near a Christmas tree. Mark Henry came in dressed as Santa Claus, with Tony Atlas wearing a Rudolph nose and antlers. Henry yelled at Alicia to move, and she and Gabriel danced their way out. Henry delivered a "Night Before Christmas" story, but he talked about Hornswoggle and giving him the World's Strongest Slam to splatter him.

Backstage, Teddy Long's assistant Tiffany thanked CM Punk and Kofi Kingston for coming. Ricky Ortiz was there and about to give a gift box to Tiffany. Punk tried to take it thinking it was for him. Tiffany opened the box and inside was the Ricky Ortiz rally towel. Punk started joking how this could be Slammy Moment of the Year. Punk then joked that Kofi Kingston really wants a rally towel too. Ortiz produced one and told Punk he had one to give him as well, as the three men left for their match.

CM Punk, Kofi Kingston & Ricky Ortiz vs. John Morrison, The Miz & Jack Swagger

Prior to the match, Striker and Grisham revisited slides of Miz & Morrison winning the World Tag titles over the weekend at a live event.

As the match went on, Punk gained the upperhand on Morrison and got him up for the GTS. Punk was too close to the ropes, and Miz helped pull Morrison down onto the apron. Punk jumped up and dropkicked both men to the outside. Just then Kingston flew off the corner down onto Jack Swagger. Ortiz got into it, rushing across the ring and clothesline Swagger out as ECW took a commercial break.

As ECW returned, Kofi Kingston tagged in to go at Morrison. Morrison managed to gain some control, until Kofi used flip moves to throw Morrison across the ring. Miz tried to get in, but Kofi kicked him down as well. As Kofi went to the corner and began punching Morrison, Jack Swagger came over and shoved him down to the outside. Morrison and The Miz started to take advantage by doubleteaming Kofi in the ring. Swagger tagged in and used a series of elbow drops as well as a headlock on Kofi to wear him down. Kofi finally escaped by grabbing Swagger with his legs and throwing him down. Ortiz made the tag in and had serious momentum rushing around the knock Swagger down, as well as Miz and Morrison off the apron.

Ortiz hit a huge missile dropkick off the corner onto Swagger. Ortiz had the pin but Miz and Morrison came in to prevent it. Kofi and Punk came in to beat Miz and Morrison up, forcing them out of the ring. As things continued outside, Ortiz got up on the corner and tried to leap across the ring at Swagger. Swagger gave him a huge boot to the midsection then the Gut Wrench Powerbomb to win the match.

Winners: The Miz, John Morrison & Jack Swagger win via pinfall over CM Punk, Kofi Kingston & Ricky Ortiz.

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Jack Swagger vs. Ricky Ortiz - Round 1

ECW on Sci-Fi was off to a tremendous start this past Tuesday night, showing why it may soon have the ECW name respectable again. In the opener, the always cocky and boastful, Jack Swagger, demanded General Manager Theodore Long name him the top contender for Matt Hardy's ECW title. Teddy was hesitant to do so, and his lovely assistant, WWE Diva Tiffany, added in that Ricky Ortiz is also undefeated. Ortiz came out to agree with Tiffany's claim, and insult Swagger for his lisp in a rather funny moment. From there, Teddy Long set a match right then to decide who would be top dog, Swagger vs. Ortiz for the first time ever.

In the match (ECW recap here), both superstars looked good, but Swagger was just slightly better. There was no cheating involved as Swagger pulled off a clean win after beating up Ortiz outside the ring and then finishing him off. It definitely gives Swagger a huge push, and it may be a disappointing first loss for Ortiz. Matt Striker did make the point that John Cena was defeated in his first match ever, against Kurt Angle on Smackdown. So Ortiz losing 7 matches in is nothing to sneeze at. I still think Ortiz is capable of handing Swagger his first loss, unless Matt Hardy does so first. That said, Swagger has the making of a cocky ECW champion and it wouldn't be far fetched to see him take the belt. He also provides a heel that others can insult due to the lisp. Hopefully we see the Swagger vs. Hardy match at the Armgaddon PPV, and it's a good one, so that fans will renew their interest in the ECW product.

On another note, Teddy's assistant, Tiffany, definitely is smitten with Ricky Ortiz, as you can tell from her in-ring and backstage talk to hype him up. I'm going to bet she becomes Ortiz's ringside gal in the near future, and that Ortiz will feud with the other newcomer, DJ Gabriel. Makes sense as you'll have opportunities for a mixed tag match (Ortiz/Tiffany vs. Gabriel/Alicia Fox) as well as the two ECW divas feuding.

Overall the Swagger-Ortiz match definitely made for an exciting start to the show, to have a surprise match featuring two undefeated rising stars from the ECW. The two wrestlers' names even give the fight a boxing or UFC sound. If ECW can continue to set up these sorts of intriguing situations, it's definitely going to be a respectable WWE brand again, and considered less of a minor league for new stars.

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ECW Recap 12.02.08

ECW's Young Stars Rising

WWE's End of 2008 Schedule

ECW's Young Talent Rising

The ECW may be viewed as sort of a minor league for the WWE, although it still has its share of star power. Matt Hardy as ECW champ, Mark Henry, The Miz, and John Morrison as viable heels and Finlay/Hornswoggle as an entertaining duo all help the show these days. It may lack divas since the departures of Extreme Expose (Brooke, Kelly, Layla), but it has a beautiful blonde assistant for GM Teddy Long in Tiffay. There's also returning WWE Diva Alicia Fox who's easy on the eyes as well. Last week's show saw a classic Extreme Rules match featuring Mr. Extreme himself, Tommy Dreamer against Jack Swagger. Those are the sort of matches ECW was built on, and hopefully it continues to feature them.

Aside from all that, ECW has several young stars who look like they will be the power stars of the future WWE. One of them is currently sidelined, as Evan Bourne is recovering from a bad landing, healing his ankle up. It's unknown at this point if Bourne will be returning to ECW or Raw based on his backstage encounter with Raw's Snitsky. Also on ECW you have the cocky young superstar, Jack Swagger, Ricky Ortiz, who's also undefeated, and the newest guy, DJ Gabriel, who not only has wrestling moves but also dance moves in the ring. His gimmick may wear out fast, but he's got potential based on his physique and abilities in the ring. Any of these guys can eventually move on to bigger and better things as they each look like potential wearers of WWE gold, whether it be the IC or US title.

The ECW title picture itself may heat up fast with these guys in the mix. On last week's show, Jack Swagger informed Matt Hardy he's the top contender for the ECW title, since he's done with Dreamer. Ricky Ortiz may also have a claim, as the young Ortiz is undefeated. DJ Gabriel, while only facing amateur talent so far, may also have a claim to make in the coming weeks. We may be heading for a mini tournament to determine the new top contender which would make for exciting ECW action. A Triple Threat between Hardy, Swagger and Ortiz might make for one heckuva PPV match.

As Kevin Eck mentioned on a recent Ring Posts blog, Matt Striker has quickly become one of the best commentators in the business. He definitely has a grasp on the material, wrestler names & moves, more so than his predecessor, recently resigned Raw GM, Mike Adamle. Then again, Striker's been in the business against many of the superstars, and that will always bring more to the tables, ladders and chairs of ECW.

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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

---

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.

Wrestling Poll: New Stars & Titles

The WWE has added several new superstars over the past few months. Starting off there is the Russian Vladimir Kozlov who completely dominates and brutalizes opponents in the ring. Then there's Ricky Ortiz, an ECW newcomer who uses power moves in the ring as well as the support of fans waving his Ricky Ortiz rally towels in the crowd. ECW also has a high-flyer in the exciting Evan Bourne who does a beautiful Shooting Starpress off the turnbuckle to splash down on his opponents. There's also Smackdown's R-Truth, who has a hip-hop vibe and kicks positivity, but in the ring is all business, using impressive spin moves and flying kicks. And don't forget the newest of the bunch, a 2nd generation star named Manu, who is the song of legendary Wild Samoan, Afa.

Now the question is with all these promising new talents in the WWE, which of them will be the first to strike WWE gold? Vote in the latest poll here at WWE Characters the Blog below, or use the poll on the lower right sidebar!

Which of these newer WWE stars will win a title first?
	Evan Bourne
	Manu
	Ricky Ortiz
	R-Truth
	Vladimir Kozlov
	None will win a title
pollcode.com free polls

ECW's New Superstar Class 2008

ECW's New Superstar Class

With ECW's new Superstar Initiative by Teddy Long, WWE fans are getting treated to some new faces, and a large potential of talent. Throw in R-Truth who recently debuted on Smackdown as well as beautiful new Smackdown diva Brie Bella, and there's potential for some great new feuds, stories and championship potential on the respective brands.

ECW's brightest new superstar is easily Evan Bourne, a high-flyer who finishes off opponents with a Shooting Starpress, an impressive and beautiful flip from off the corner turnbuckle, splashing down on opponents. This past Tuesday night, Bourne displayed the move with his usual grace as he landed on the World's Strongest Man, Mark Henry. Something tells me that maybe WWE should have Bourne in the Championship Scramble and not The Miz, but it needs 2 heels. Nonetheless, Bourne seems capable of a title, maybe a tag title run to start things off. It wouldn't be a bad idea for WWE to bring back the Cruiserweight title either.

Next up on ECW is Ricky Ortiz, who uses the "Big O" as his finisher, While not as impressive aerially as Bourne, Ortiz comes off the ropes and leaps up in the air for a move similar to a belly splash on his fallen opponent. He displays brute force and has a hairstyle similar to Carlito. Ortiz also has the fans behind him with the rally towels they wave to get him pumped up when the opponent has the upperhand. As of his ECW career, Ortiz is impressively undefeated, but has yet to face top caliber talent. He definitely has the look of a United States Champion, and WWE might consider moving him to Smackdown. Either that, or we'll see him defeat Shelton in an inter-brand matchup for the title. It seems like the best scenario for him at the moment.

ECW also has two new heels looking to establish themselves in Gavin Spears and the latest, Ryan Braddock. Spears claims he's the crown jewel of the new initiative, but has yet to prove it, losing in consecutive weeks. Braddock has the look and style of a young Bradshaw/JBL, claiming he likes to win ugly. Both have lost their debuts, and Spears is 0-2 to start. They'll need to start picking up wins soon to stay with Teddy's initiative, although ECW and WWE can always use wrestlers to give rising stars victories.

ECW Recap 08.19.08

ECW recap from Quad Cities:

Highlights were shown of the ECW title match gone awry at Summerslam. Matt Hardy hit the Twist of Fate and had the pinfall on Henry, but Tony Atlas ran over to yank Matt out of the ring. Atlas continued to beat up Matt outside the ring, but Jeff Hardy ran down for the save. Jeff and Matt ended up giving a double suplex to Mark Henry outside the ring, causing Henry and Atlas to eventually retreat up the ramp.

Commentators Matt Striker and Todd Grisham announced tonight's main event will be a rematch with Matt Hardy going for Mark Henry's ECW title.

Evan Bourne, Super Crazy & Tommy Dreamer vs. Chavo Guerrero, John Morrison & The Miz

Chavo was accompanied to the ring by bodyguard Bam Neely.

In the six man tag match, Miz tried to stay in control and keep Evan Bourne away from a tag. Bourne caught Miz with a surprise powerslam then tagged in Dreamer. Dreamer began to clean house, knocking Miz and Morrison around, and Chavo out of the ring. Dreamer hit a bulldog on Miz, then hit his finisher. Morrison got back in the ring and broke up the pin. From here Dreamer proceeded to knock all 3 opponents out of the ring. Super Crazy charged and dove over the top rope landing on Miz and Morrison, but Bourne did one better as he did a Moonsault off the corner to the outside.

Miz got back in the ring with Dreamer looking to the outside. Morrison grabbed Dreamer's leg and Miz was able to deliver a vicious Reality Check to win it.

Winners: The Miz, John Morrison and Chavo Guerrero win via pinfall over Evan Bourne, Super Crazy & Tommy Dreamer.

Ricky Ortiz was shown backstage on his way out to the ring.

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Gavin Spears vs. Ricky Ortiz

Spears had a promo prior to the match saying he is the crown jewel of the ECW superstar initiative because he hasn't something other stars don't, talent.

Ortiz managed to fly off the corner ropes to hit a shoulder block on newcomer Spears. Ortiz followed with a move Matt Striker called "The Big O" as he came off the ropes to splash Spears for the pinfall.

Winner: Ricky Ortiz wins via pinfall over Gavin Spears.

Backstage, a pair of 80lb dumbbells were shown. Mark Henry picked them up and starting doing bicep curls as Tony Atlas hyped him up.

---

Finlay and Hornswoggle came down to the ring and tossed a green hat out to the crowd. Finlay then addressed Mike Knox who's called him soft because of the fun he has in the ring lately. Finlay called out Knox telling him to come to the ring and prove his point.

Knox came to the top of the ramp with a mic, and Finlay again told him to come prove himself instead of running his mouth. Knox started down towards the ring, then stopped himself. Knox told Finlay he'll do this on his terms, not when Finlay wants him to put him out of his misery. Finlay said he gave Knox one week to make a move, so now it's his turn to attack. Finlay charged up the ramp and tackled Knox down, punching away at him. Knox gained control and the two began fighting back and forth, until WWE staff and officials separated them near the crowd.

Matt Hardy shown backstage preparing himself for the rematch against Mark Henry for the ECW title.

---

Highlights were shown from Summerslam, where Shawn Michaels came down to the ring with his wife Rebecca. Michaels told the crowd due to his eye injury, the doctor recommended for him to walk away. Michaels said after talking it over with his family, he is deciding to heed the doctor's advice. Michaels started to thank the fans, but Chris Jericho came down to interrupt. Jericho told HBK he needs to admit to the world that Jericho is the reason he's walking away. Michaels said he'd do that if Jericho can admit he'll never be Shawn Michaels. As Michaels turned to leave, an enraged Jericho went to strike him. Michaels ducked and Jericho punched Michaels' wife instead. As Y2J exited up the ramp, Michaels attended to his fallen wife Rebecca on the mat.

Matt Hardy vs. Mark Henry

In the main event, Matt Hardy was granted a rematch for the ECW title against Mark Henry after what went down at Summerslam. Tony Atlas was at ringside to cheer on Henry.

Henry took control at one point beating Matt around the ring, but after whipping him to the corner, Henry charged at Matt with Matt moving away. As Matt went for a Twist of Fate, Henry pushed him away to the ropes then ran to clothesline him outside the ring. ECW went to break, then returned with Henry keeping Matt down in the ring with a neck/chinlock.

Matt broke free from the hold and got to his feet, but Henry quickly knocked him down. Henry went over to have Tony Atlas massage his knee which he was favoring. Henry again went for the chinlock, but Matt fought out of it and got to his feet. Henry was quick to knock him down yet again. As Matt got over to the ropes the ref was distracted by Henry talking to him, and Tony Atlas delivered a cheap shot on Hardy.

Henry continued to dominate using a bear hug and then a Half Nelson. Matt tried to gain momentum yet again, but was hit by Henry's forearm. Henry then pressed Matt up overhead and dropped him to the mat. Henry went for a huge splash to finish Matt, but Matt moved out of the way, then got to his feet. Matt began to thorw punch after punch, flying around the ring. Matt landed an elbow drop off the second rope as well as a flying bodypress. Matt failed to capture the pin twice, then waited for Henry to stand. Matt went for Twist of Fate, but Henry countered to shove Matt away. Matt came off the ropes and quickly hit Twist of Fate. Since he was near the ropes, Tony Atlas came over and pulled Matt out of the ring. Matt tried for a Moonsault off the top rope, but Henry put a knee up. Henry followed with a Worlds Strongest Slam to finish it.

Winner: Mark Henry wins via pinfall over Matt Hardy to retain the ECW title.