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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ECW Recap 02.02.10

ECW Recap from Memphis, TN:

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

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

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

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

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

Shelton Benjamin vs. Vance Archer

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

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

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

Winner: Vance Archer wins via pinfall over Shelton Benjamin.

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

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

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

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

Yoshi Tatsu vs. Trent Barreta

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

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

Winner: Yoshi Tatsu wins via pinfall over Trent Barreta.

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

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

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

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Christian vs. Zack Ryder

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

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

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

Winner: Christian wins due to disqualification over Zack Ryder.

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WWE Superstars Recap 01.21.10

WWE Superstars Recap 01.21.10

Superstars opened with Raw commentators Jerry Lawler and Michael Cole welcoming fans to the show. To start things off, WWE Diva Jillian Hall arrived to the ring and began to sing, causing the fans to severely boo her. Finally, Kelly Kelly's theme music hit to break up the singing.

Kelly Kelly vs. Jillian Hall

Early on, Jillian was in control as she put Kelly into the surfboard submission to stretch her back. Kelly eventually tried to fight back, but Jillian smashed Kelly face first into the mat to stop the comeback. Jillian did the back submission hold again to further wear down Kelly. Kelly started her comeback after the hold was released and she eventually hit the spinning head scissors throw down on Jillian. Kelly went with a handspring into an elbow smash into Jillian in the corner. She did a step-up leg drop finisher to get the pinfall and victory.

Winner: Kelly Kelly wins via pinfall over Jillian Hall.

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Shelton Benjamin vs. Vance Archer

Archer held himself against the ropes as Shelton went for a dropkick, causing Benjamin to fall to the mat. He whipped Shelton hard to the corner, then went over and hung him in the Tree of Woe to kick away at. Archer backed away and rushed at Shelton, but Benjamin managed to get his legs free and kick Archer away. From there, Shelton managed to roll Archer into a pinfall for the win. Archer rolled to the outside holding the back of his head and sneering at Shelton who was in the ring.

Winner: Shelton Benjamin wins via pinfall over Vance Archer.

Ask the divas was next to ask "Do you have a travel accessory?" and "How do you turn down a friend who keeps asking you out?" Eve Torres, Katie Lea, Alicia Fox and Gail Kim were featured in the segment.

Still to come tonight will be a Smackdown match for the main event with Kane taking on Chris Jericho.

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After a "WWE Did You Know" factoid, they showed a highlight promo video of United States Champion, The Miz, from WWE Raw.

Smackdown's Matt Striker and Todd Grisham were now on hand for commentary. They discussed the 2010 Royal Rumble matches, including Randy Orton versus Sheamus for the WWE Title, Rey Mysterio versus Undertaker for the World Heavyweight Title, and the 30-man Royal Rumble match with the winner getting a title shot at Wrestlemania 26.

Chris Jericho made his entrance to the ring, right before WWE Superstars headed to a commercial break.

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Kane vs. Chris Jericho

Striker noted that Kane has the most experience of all superstars in the Royal Rumble match. Early on, after Jericho retreated from the ring and re-entered, Kane took it to him. He knocked Jericho to the mat then did a running dropkick on a seated Jericho on the mat. Kane began to beat on Jericho in the corner then put him down on the mat in an armbar submission. Jericho made a bit of a comeback after getting a kick in on Kane near the ropes. Kane started to gain control again, but as he charged at Jericho near the ropes, Jericho pulled the top rope down causing Kane to spill out. Right before a commercial break, Jericho did a springboard kick off the ropes to knock Kane off the apron into the crowd barrier.

After a break, Jericho was in control, but Kane soon was back in command. He caught Jericho in a bear hug when Jericho jumped off the ropes, but Jericho managed to turn things around by avoiding Kane rushing in the corner. Kane went shoulder-first into the ringpost and Jericho went to work on the Big Red Monster by putting both knees on his back against the ropes. Jericho put Kane into a sleeper choke hold on the mat, but the Big Red Monster stood up to fall back. Jericho held the sleeper hold on Kane as they stayed on the mat. Kane stood again and this time backed Jericho into the corner to break it. He went at Jericho only to get an elbow in the face, but as Jericho ran Kane side-slammed him to the mat.

Kane now had momentum as he knocked Jericho down, then sent him to the corner for a hard clothesline, followed by the Sidewalk Slam. Kane went to the top rope for a move but as he jumped, Jericho with a dropkick to take him down. Next up was a bulldog from Jericho. He went for the Lionsault but flipped onto his feet, appearing to maybe tweak his knee. Kane picked him up for a move on his shoulder, but Jericho slid off and clipped Kane's leg. Kane flipped Jericho off the potential Walls of Jericho. Jericho went for a Codebreaker but Kane pushed him off. Kane set up for a Chokeslam and had Jericho by the throat. Jericho escaped it and quickly slid out of the ring to start jogging up the ramp. The ref began his countout and got to 6 as Jericho as at the top of the ramp. Jericho started back then waved his hand as if he wanted no more. Kane won by the countout decision.

Winner: Kane wins due to countout of Chris Jericho.

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ECW Recap 01.12.10

ECW Recap from Green Bay, WI:

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

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

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

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

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The Hurricane vs. Zack Ryder

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

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

Winner: Zack Ryder wins via pinfall over The Hurricane.

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

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

Goldust vs. Trent Barreta

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

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

Winner: Trent Barreta wins via pinfall over Goldust.

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

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

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

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

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

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ECW Homecoming Battle Royal

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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ECW Recap 12.15.09

ECW Recap from Laredo, TX:

ECW on SyFy started by showing a highlight video package of Kane, former ECW champion. From there, they went to Kane on camera who began to laugh maniacally and declared he was back. On tonight's episode, Abraham Washington Show will feature the Diva of the Year, Maria.

ECW's GM Tiffany was already in the ring to start the show off. She praised this past Sunday's TLC match, the ladder match between Christian and Shelton. She called both men out to the ring. Shelton was favoring his back, while Christian had a black eye from a ladder hitting him. The two opponents shook hands. Tiffany thanked them for representing ECW like they did in such great fashion. Benjamin took the mic and called Sunday's match one of the proudest moments of his career, but he fell short in his goal. Shelton requested a rematch for the ECW title. Tiffany took the mic back and was about to tell him he could have the opportunity when William Regal's music hit.

Regal, Kozlov and Jackson arrived on stage. Regal said he's tired of all this nonesense. Regal asked Tiffany if she had gone mental since she allowed Kane to come back on ECW again. Tiffany explained her new idea called "ECW Homecoming" where she'll invite former ECW stars to compete for a title shot, Kane is the first. The winner of a series of tournament matches will get a title shot at Christian at the 2010 Royal Rumble. Tonight will feature two such matches: Kane takes on Zack Ryder, and then Kozlov will face Jackson. Kozlov had a huge frown when he heard the news, while Jackson was all smiles. Regal tried to mediate the two big men.

The Ripper (Paul Burchill wearing a villain mask) was shown backstage with his valet, "The Beautiful Nightmare" (Katie Lea), wearing a masquerade mask. Ripper takes on The Hurricane next.

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The Hurricane vs. The Ripper

Late in the match, with Katie Lea watching from ringside, Hurricane hit a huge uppercut for a two count. He tried to get the Shining Wizard, but Burchill ducked it, then hit a neckbreaker for a near fall. Burchill whipped Hurricane to the corner, then charged at him. Hurricane got his boot up in time to stop it, then did a DDT from the corner to plant Burchill into the mat head first. Hurricane then went right for the mask and removed The Ripper's disguised to reveal it was in fact Paul Burchill. Burchill was frustrated and shocked by this, which allowed Hurricane to hit the Shining Wizard for the win. Burchill failed to earn a contract with ECW. Hurricane celebrated by showing off the mask he retrieved to the fans.

Winner: The Hurricane wins via pinfall over The Ripper.

Matthews and Saxton talked up last night's Raw which was the 2009 Slammy Awards. They showed highlights including some of Dennis Miller's jokes, as well as various award winners such as Maria for Diva of Year, JeriShow for tag team of year, and then John Cena winning Superstar of the Year tournament. The show ended with Sheamus coming out to the top of the ramp and showing off his WWE title.

Coming up next, Abe Washington Show features Maria, the 2009 Diva of the Year.

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Tony Atlas introduced Abraham Washington, who got his usual chorus of boos as he thanked everyone repeatedly. He mentioned there was a crime committed and told someone to call 911, since he was robbed at Raw's 2009 Slammy's last night. Abe said he was the 2009 Breakout Star of the Year, Superstar of the Year and even Tag Team of the year. Tony Atlas said he also should have won "diva of the year" also.

Washington's guest was 2009 Diva of the Year, Maria. Abe rolled the clip from Raw where she accepted her award but was interrupted by Batista. Washington laughed after it rolled, and Maria retorted that he wasn't robbed, she's seen his show. Atlas chirped in "It stinks!" Maria teased Abe about letting him hold her Slammy trophy. She then let Atlas hold it, and then pulled it away from Washington. Abe came back saying he voted for Michelle McCool last night anyways. He said he wished Batista would come out and interrupt again, then told Atlas to close the show. Maria posed for the fans on the stage holding up her award.

Backstage, William Regal was shown hyping up Kozlov for his match against Ezekiel Jackson next.

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Ezekiel Jackson vs. Vladimir Kozlov

During the match, Josh Matthews informed everyone the specifics of the Homecoming tournament for #1 contender status. There will be 16 matches leading to 8 winners who will compete in an "ECW Homecoming Finale" in five weeks from now. Winner of that goes on to Royal Rumble to face Christian for the title.

During the match, which lasted about two minutes, Regal figured in as he tripped Vladimir Kozlov from the outside. Ezekiel did his one-armed slam finisher called Uranage on Kozlov to collect a pinfall win and move on.

After the match, Regal was getting his long coat outside the ring and Kozlov came over to confront him. Jackson attacked from behind and Regal helped by running Kozlov into the commentators' table. Regal and Jackson celebrated their victories in and out of the ring.

Winner: Ezekiel Jackson wins via pinfall over Vladimir Kozlov to move on in the ECW Homecoming tournament.

Backstage, Caylen Croft and Trent Barreta were playing Smackdown vs. Raw 2010 video game. They pretended they had beat D-Generation X in the game. They said video games immitate real life, then did a fist pound before leaving.

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Julio Cruz & Jorge Arias vs. Trent Barreta & Caylen Croft

Another quick match which saw the new tag team, Croft & Barreta dominate two amateurs in the ring. They worked on them in typical tag team fashion, with frequent tags in and out. They finally ended things with a doubleteam neckbreaker move to collect a pinfall win.

After their win, they grabbed the mic from the ring announcer, Savannah, and announced they will be next year's winners for 2009 Tag Team of the Year Slammy.

Winners: Trent Barreta & Caylen Croft win via pinfall over Julio Cruz & Jorge Arias.

Backstage, Goldust was explaining his jokes from last night's Raw to Yoshi Tatsu. Kane came in to interrupt the conversation. Yoshi Tatsu backed up and began saying something in his language. Kane asked Goldust to translate and his stutter kicked in. Kane said "and they say I'm a freak" and walked off.

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Zack Ryder vs. Kane
ECW Homecoming match

In the second of 16 matches for ECW Homecoming, the Big Red Machine Kane was back to his old stomping grounds. Ryder came out to the ring with Rosa Mendes and pretended he was un-phased by Kane.

Ryder came out on the offensive, until Kane hit some uppercuts on him. In the corner, Ryder got his leg up to boot Kane in the face. Coming off the ropes, Ryder got caught midair by Kane who hit a Powerslam. Kane missed his elbow drop attempt. Ryder started using submissions to wear down the big man on the mat, methodically working over Kane's knee/hamstring.

Ryder continued to stay in control using submission holds, with Matthews/Saxon saying maybe Kane underestimated him. Kane started to make a comeback, but Ryder hit a Rocker Dropper to get a two count. He went for the Rough Ryder finisher, but Kane escaped it, then hit his chokeslam. Kane wins by pinfall. Kane set off his explosion from the ring corners before ECW ended.

Winner: Kane wins via pinfall over Zack Ryder to qualify for the ECW Homecoming in January.

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ECW Recap 12.08.09

ECW Recap from Houston, TX:

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

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

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

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Tommy Dreamer vs. Vance Archer

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

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

Winner: Vance Archer wins via pinfall over Tommy Dreamer.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Winners: Christian, Yoshi Tatsu and Shelton Benjamin.

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

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ECW Recap 12.01.09

ECW Recap from Hampton, VA:

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

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

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

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

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Goldust vs. William Regal

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

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

Winner: Goldust wins via pinfall over William Regal.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Shelton Benjamin & Christian vs. Vladimir Kozlov & Ezekiel Jackson

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

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

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

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

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2009 TLC Pay-Per-View Matches

The newest innovation in WWE Pay-Per-Views will be TLC taking place on December 13, 2009. This PPV (formerly known as Armageddon) is based on the always popular Tables, Ladders and Chairs match aka "TLC", and will feature a table match, ladder match, chair match and a comprehensive "TLC" match. So far, three of these matches have been revealed with several more still to be announced. Check back often for the updated matches. Here's a look at the 2009 TLC PPV matches and summary of how they were arranged.

Also, get the 2009 WWE TLC PPV results here.

Drew McIntyre vs. John Morrison
Intercontinental Title match

Drew McIntyre was personally signed to the Smackdown brand by Chairman Vince McMahon. That alone is quite an endorsement, and with a sneaky non-title victory over John Morrison last week, McIntyre propelled himself into title contention. At TLC he will face Morrison again, this time with the Intercontinental title up for grabs. McIntyre has the talent and attitude, but can he overcome the Friday night delight, John Morrison to claim his first ever singles title?

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Mickie James vs. Michelle McCool
WWE Womens Title match

Ever since arriving to Smackdown, Mickie James has been the target of insults and jokes at the hands of Michelle McCool and Layla. They've gone as far as to make a mockery of James in their own "Old MacDonald" parody video, and even wear "Piggie James" shirts to the ring to further insult James. Despite all that, Mickie has vowed to get her revenged by shutting up McCool and taking the Womens title in the process. Will she be successful in her campaign at the TLC PPV, or will McCool continue to get the last laugh?

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Shelton Benjamin vs. Christian
ECW Title Ladder Match

On the 11.24.09 episode of ECW on SyFy, Shelton Benjamin competed in a match against fellow star Zack Ryder. It was announced during that match if Shelton won, he'd be named #1 Contender for the ECW title. Shelton was able to win in impressive fashion, hitting Paydirt on Ryder to score a clean pinfall win. However, Shelton celebrated just briefly before current ECW champ Christian arrived to have a talk with him in the ring. Christian noted how the ECW was mistakingly overlooked during the past several PPV events, and now it was time to steal the show. He told Shelton they should have a ladder match, since neither competitor's a stranger to them. Both have been part of Money in the Bank as well as other ladder matches during WWE history. Will these two steal the show at TLC, and more importantly is this the Gold Standard's time to claim new gold in the form of the ECW title?

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D-Generation X vs. Chris Jericho & Big Show
TLC Match for Undisputed Tag Titles

D-Generation X and JeriShow both were involved in different Triple threat matches at Survivor Series with DX going for John Cena's WWE title and JeriShow going for Undertaker's Heavyweight title. Both teams were on the losing end of things, yet seemed to come out of the PPV on the same page. While Big Show wasn't present on Raw, his always brash and arrogant tag partner, Chris Jericho was. Jericho made his way out following DX's victory over the Hart Dynasty to let it be known JeriShow will be defending their tag titles versus DX at TLC in several weeks time. HHH and Michaels mocked the current champions, before Shawn Michaels added the important point about this match: it will be an all-out war in a Tables, Ladders & Chairs match. All of the competitors in this match are familiar with these items and have used them against opponents in the past, as well as fallen victim to these destructive weapons. Will D-Generation X finally claim their first tag team titles at the TLC PPV, or will JeriShow continue to dominate all competition?

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Sheamus vs. John Cena
WWE Title Table match

As mentioned above, the current WWE Champion John Cena successfully defended his WWE Championship at Survivor Series against DX. Cena has shown time and again he's up for a challenge and can overcome the toughest of circumstances. However on Raw, special guest host Jesse Ventura decided to introduce a revolutionary new concept. Ventura set up a special series of matches involving wrestlers who had never held the WWE or World Heavyweight title before. These winning competitors would all be entered into a Breakthrough Battle Royal, with the winner getting to compete for the title from their show. The match consisted of Legacy, MVP, Mark Henry, R-Truth, Kofi Kingston, Sheamus and Randy Orton, who managed to sneak his way into the competition. It came down to Orton, Kingston and Sheamus, with Kofi able to slyly eliminate the Viper, right before he was clotheslined out of the ring by Sheamus. Sheamus was named the #1 Contender after just a month's time on Raw.

The Celtic Warrior has been destroying everyone in his path lately, including sending Jamie Noble into retirement. During the official contract signing with John Cena, Sheamus demanded proper respect. Cena made it clear Sheamus hasn't shown him anything yet and let him know he better prepare for an all-out battle. From there, Jesse Ventura began to incite Cena, by saying there's been a conspiracy to keep guys like Cena the WWE Champ. Cena got in Ventura's face, but was quickly given a big boot by Sheamus, and soon thereafter he was sent crashing through the table in the ring. The WWE Universe then learned that the fate of Cena's WWE Title will be decided at TLC in a Table match. Can Cena overcome yet another tough challenger in the form of Sheamus? Or will the Celtic Warrior continue his domination of Raw's roster by claiming the ultimate prize- the WWE title?

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Batista vs. The Undertaker
World Heavyweight title Chairs Match

Ever since returning to Smackdown, Batista has had his sites set on reclaiming the World Heavyweight title. At the time of his arrival to the show, Batista seemed in good spirits and was partnering up with his good friend Rey Mysterio. The two failed to defeat Chris Jericho and Big Show for the Unified tag team titles, and then later ended up being put into a World Heavyweight title Fatal Fourway match at a PPV. During that match, Batista ended up being pinned by Taker who retained his title. After the loss, the Animal blamed Mysterio and gave him a beatdown. The two friends were broken apart, and at the last WWE PPV, Batista broke Rey Mysterio until he was taken away via stretcher.

Batista has promised to hurt anyone who gets in his way en route to the World Heavyweight title. He recently won a #1 Contender's match against Undertaker's brother Kane, and now faces Undertaker for the title at TLC. Batista also sat ringside to watch Undertaker battle Chris Jericho in a match, then got involved, eventually beating down Taker with a steel chair. It was later revealed that these two rivals will meet at the TLC PPV, in a Chairs match. Chairs are fully legal to smash down on and batter your opponent with. Which of these two monstrous competitors will end up with the Championship when the steel and dust have settled?

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Kofi Kingston vs. Randy Orton

Ever since Kofi Kingston was attacked at a previous PPV, and then returned the payback to Legacy during Orton's 60-minute Iron Man match against John Cena, The Viper has been looking to take out Kingston for his interference. These two have developed a heated feud on Raw which has included Kingston defacing and vandalizing a NASCAR race car given to Orton by Legacy, Kofi hitting a huge double leg drop from up in the audience on Orton, and Legacy repeatedly attacking Kingston when they have the chance. On the 12/7/08 episode of Monday Night Raw, guest host Mark Cuban decided to serve as guest referee when he booked Kofi and Orton to fight once again. Kingston grabbed a pinfall victory late in the match, thanks to Cuban's "impartial" officiating job. Right after the bell, Cuban was quick to announce that Kofi Kingston and Randy Orton will fight in their third match to settle the Best of 3 series at TLC. Which of these superstars will walk away with the edge in this heated feud?

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The 2009 TLC Pay-Per-View arrives at 8PM EST Sunday, December 13th, 2009. WWE Characters the Blog will present updates for all matches and winners right up until 11PM EST. Stay tuned here as more matches are announced!

ECW Recap 11.24.09

ECW Recap from Bridgeport, CT:

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

Shelton Benjamin vs. Zack Ryder

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Alex Reynolds vs. Vance Archer

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

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

Winner: Vance Archer wins via pinfall over Alex Reynolds.

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

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

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

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

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

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Yoshi Tatsu vs. William Regal

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

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

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

Winner: Yoshi Tatsu wins via pinfall over William Regal.

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WWE Superstars Recap 11.19.09

WWE Superstars 11.19.09 Recap:

After the pyro went off, Josh Matthews and Byron Saxton of ECW hyped up Sunday's Survivor Series PPV, as well as tonight's main event when Raw's Cody Rhodes faces Mark Henry. ECW opened the show with Shelton Benjamin heading to the ring.

Shelton Benjamin vs. Zack Ryder

They rolled footage of Shelton and Ryder's in ring confrontation from Tuesday's ECW on SyFy where Rosa Mendes got in Shelton's face allowing Ryder to throw a cheap shot.

Ryder brought Rosa along with him for tonight's matchup. He escaped the ring early as the bell rang and Shelton rushed at him. Shelton tossed Ryder in from the apron to start things off, then went at him in the corner. Ryder was punched down, then clotheslined down and finally suplexed for a near fall. Shelton escaped a suplex from the air to land on his feet and connect with a neckbreaker.

At one point after Ryder seemed in control, he tossed Shelton over the ropes. Shelton skinned the cat and was able to toss Ryder outside. He went for the baseball slide dropkick with Ryder moving away. Ryder shoved Shelton hard into the steel steps to regain control as the show took a commercial break.

Superstars returned with Rosa watching as Ryder had control of things. He used a variety of holds down on the mat until Shelton stood up to elbow out of it. Ryder caught Shelton with a knee to the gut as he ran from against the ropes. Shelton finally was able to jump backwards from off the corner to take Ryder down. Shelton stayed in control but was favoring his left arm. Both guys went for a flying bodypress and fell to the mat as they collided. Rosa suddenly got a call on her cell phone and ran to ringside yelling "baby, baby!" She tossed the phone in the ring by accident, then got in the ring to fetch it. The ref ordered Ryder to get his girl out of there. Shelton came jumping at Ryder who was with Rosa in the corner. Ryder moved and Rosa screamed as Shelton stopped himself on the corner in front of her. Ryder was able to slam Shelton down with Rosa cowering in the corner.

Winner: Zack Ryder wins via pinfall over Shelton Benjamin.

"Ask the Divas" was next with tonight's questions "Do you believe in love at first sight?" and "Best way to break the ice on a date?". Featured in the segment were The Bella Twins, Melina, Alicia Fox and Beth Phoenix.

Backstage in a locker room, Ted Dibiase was prepping Cody Rhodes with strategy for his main event match against Mark Henry later.

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Matt Striker and Todd Grisham from Smackdown were now on hand to discuss Survivor Series with the Batista-Rey Mysterio feud featured in highlight footage. It all started back at Bragging Rights when Batista lost the Fatal Fourway match for the World Heavyweight title. He blamed his pal Mysterio for costing him the title and destroyed him after the match. They had an in-ring confrontation on Smackdown where Rey agreed to put differences aside and forgive Batista, but The Animal refused. Now they will clash at Survivor Series 2009.

Vickie Guerrero was introduced to the crowd who gave her their usual booing treatment while she screamed "Excuse me!" several times at them. Vickie introduced her boyfriend Eric Escobar for the next match.

Jimmy Wang Yang vs. Eric Escobar

Yang used an impressive offense early on, escaping Escobar's attempts to take him down. Escobar finally tripped him into the corner to start pummeling Yang. Escobar clotheslined Yang hard in the corner then did a face forward slam move. Escobar kept a submission hold locked in on Yang down on the mat. Eric kept bashing away on Yang in the corner to Vicky's delight. Yang started to make a comeback as Grisham discussed how Escobar was nearly a baseball star. Yang hit a flying bodypress from the corner, but couldn't complete the pinfall. Yang went to the opposite corner for his moonsault, but Escobar rolled to the outside. As Yang went on the apron, Vickie was there to distract him, allowing Escobar to swipe Yang's leg out. Back in the ring, Escobar sized up Yang then hit a running dropkick to take Yang down for a pinfall. He celebrated by kissing Vickie in the ring after the bell.

Winner: Eric Escobar wins via pinfall over Jimmy Wang Yang.

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Superstars returned with a video montage about Smackdown's Drew McIntyre who Vince McMahon personally signed. McIntyre has already done damage to R-Truth, Jimmy Wang Yang and his latest victim, Finlay. Jerry Lawler and Michael Cole were now available for commentary. Lawler said he's been better since his recent attack from Sheamus. They thanked Jay-Z for his song "Empire State of Mind" featuring Alicia Keys again, which was the background music for the WWE's MSG highlights video. They rolled the video out again that was seen this past week already on Raw & ECW, only this time they had added footage from the big Triple Threat tag match on Raw.

Cole and Lawler ran down this Sunday's Survivor Series PPV card featuring the two Triple Threat matches and the Team Morrison vs. Team Miz traditional elimination match.

Cody Rhodes vs. Mark Henry

Rhodes surprisingly came out to the ring on his own without Ted Dibiase. This match appeared to have been taped in MSG before or after Raw. Last week on Superstars, Rhodes was at ringside for Dibiase's match against MVP. Rhodes got on the apron to try to argue with the ref, which wound up costing Dibiase the match as MVP rolled him up for a pinfall.

Rhodes went for an early Bear hug which didn't work so he tried to punch away. Henry absorbed the punches and Rhodes rolled to the corner to regroup. Rhodes tried for a kick with Henry grabbing his foot and shoving Rhodes down to the mat. Henry got Rhodes up for a press, but Rhdoes gave a thumb to the eye. From there, Rhodes tried to gain momentum as he hit Henry and got up on the corner. Henry threw him down then rushed him with a clothesline. Rhodes backed out of the ring and up the ramp a bit. The crowd started to get hyped up with Henry as Superstars went to a break.

As the show returned, Rhodes ducked two clotheslines but was leveled by the third move. He went outside again to rest on the steps, with Henry going to get him. Rhodes wisely dropkicked the steps into Henry's legs, but couldn't push him back in the ring. Henry got on the apron to headbutt Rhodes away. As Henry got in, Rhodes dove at his leg to chop block him, but Henry fell on Rhodes too. Rhodes hobbled over to work on Henry's hurt leg. Rhodes had a near fall but Henry threw him off. Rhodes remained in control using knee drops and other attacks inside or outside the ring. He kept a leg hold locked in on Henry back in the ring.

Henry finally recovered enough to build momentum, hitting a huge backdrop on Rhodes. He whipped him hard to the corner then tried to put him on his shoulder but his hurt leg couldn't handle the weight. Rhodes slid off and went at Henry but was shoved down. Henry signaled for his finisher, then picked Rhodes up off the mat for World's Strongest Slam to end it.

Winner: Mark Henry wins via pinfall over Cody Rhodes.

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ECW Recap 11.17.09

ECW Recap from Philadelphia, PA:

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

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

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

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

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

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The Hurricane vs. Paul Burchill
Mask vs. Career match

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Johnny Andrews vs. Vance Archer

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

Winner: Vance Archer wins via pinfall over Johnny Andrews.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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WWE Superstars Recap 11.12.09

WWE Superstars Recap 11.12.09:

Superstars matches took place in the United Kingdom for this edition and featured the stars of Raw, ECW and Smackdown in competition. Todd Grisham was on hand for commentary along with partner Matt Striker from Smackdown. In the main event, it will be Raw's MVP facing Ted Dibiase of Legacy. Matt Hardy from Smackdown arrived out to start off the show.

Matt Hardy vs. David Hart Smith

Striker discussed how Hardy took a serious beating at the hands of Batista on Smackdown last week, but is back in action tonight. The Hart Dynasty arrived to the ring, allowing Natalya and Kidd to be at ringside.

As things moved at a frantic pace, the action eventually moved to the outside where Hardy pounded on Smith. He tossed Smith back into the ring after slamming him face first on the apron. As Matt got up on the corner, Tyson Kidd came over to distract the ref. Smith ran over and punched Matt, then climbed the corner to superplex him off. Both men were down holding their neck/head area as Superstars went to break.

Superstars returned with Smith locking in an abdominal stretch on Hardy. Hardy was able to escape and force Smith to the corner where he beat on him. The ref pulled Hardy away and Smith got a cheapshot punch in. Smith followed with a powerslam. Smith was able to suplex Matt into a bridge pin for a near fall. Matt was put up on the corner seated again, but he elbowed Smith off this time, then hit a moonsault on him for a very close pinfall. Matt started to favor his left knee as he got back up. Both men traded shots, with Matt hitting a side neckbreaker for a near fall. In the closing moments, Matt hit a Side Effect and Smith kicked out of the pin. Matt prepared for Twist of Fate, but Tyson Kidd got on the apron to interrupt. Matt was distracted and as he turned he got a boot to the face from Smith.

The ref ordered Natalya and Kidd to leave the ringside area so Smith didn't get a pinfall out of his boot move. Instead, the distraction allowed Matt to grab Smith and roll him into a small package pin to win it.

Winner: Matt Hardy wins via pinfall over DH Smith.

Next up was "Ask the Divas". In this week's segment, the questions were "What's the cheesiest pickup line someone's used on you?" and "Should I let my best friend know I like him?". Divas featured were Eve, Melina, Natalya, Maria, Beth Phoenix, Bella Twins, Michelle McCool and Gail Kim. You can submit questions for "Ask the divas" at WWE Universe.

Zack Ryder was shown backstage on his way out for his match with Shelton Benjamin. Rosa Mendes came walking out to go with him.

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Shelton Benjamin vs. Zack Ryder

Ryder was accompanied to the ring by ECW diva Rosa Mendes. Byron Saxton and Josh Matthews were on hand for commentary. Just 9 days ago, Ryder lost to Shelton when he became distracted by Rosa at ringside.

In the latter stages of this match, Shelton ducked Ryder's clothesline attempt, then kneed him in the gut. Shelton then tried for a Powerbomb, but Ryder began punching at him while seated up on his shoulders. Shelton walked over towards the ropes to dump Ryder out, but Ryder used momentum to toss Shelton over too. Both men crashed to the floor. Rosa Mendes rushed over to check on Ryder as Shelton had just dropkicked him from the ring into the crowd barrier. With Rosa standing in front of Ryder he got a goofy look on his face as he was mesmerized by her. The ref counted Ryder out. When he realized what happened he rushed into the ring but only to get hit by Shelton's Paydirt. Rosa went over to the side of the ring to check on Ryder as Shelton shrugged, celebrating.

Winner: Shelton Benjamin wins due to countout of Zack Ryder.

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A video was shown featuring highlights of The Celtic Warrior, Sheamus.

Michael Cole and Jerry Lawler were now on hand as Raw's commentary team. They discussed the Survivor Series including the big WWE Title Triple Threat match. They also discussed the Team Kofi vs Team Orton traditional elimination match which will feature MVP on one team, and Ted Dibiase on the other.

Josh Matthews was with Legacy in the locker room. Matthews asked Legacy about the harsh words they had in the VIP Lounge for MVP, Kofi Kingston and Mark Henry. Rhodes said they were speaking their minds and they don't see any of those guys as important. Dibiase reminded everyone his dad is Million Dollar Man, so he's the one who's "Ballin". Dibiase said nobody impresses him from Team Kofi and tonight he's going to give MVP a beatdown for the VIP.

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Highlights were shown from the Texas NASCAR race where Kyle Busch drove the Smackdown-Raw race car. Jerry Lawler was on hand for the event.

MVP vs. Ted Dibiase

Dibiase arrived to the ring with his Legacy tag partner, Cody Rhodes. MVP was joined by his tag partner Mark Henry. Early on, MVP took Dibiase down by clothesline then whipped him from corner to corner. As he charged at Dibiase, MVP took a boot to his face, but responded with a backdrop on Dibiase for a near fall. MVP had a headlock locked onto Dibiase, but Ted got up to knee MVP. Dibiase eventually escaped to the outside where Rhodes was. MVP saw them both and took the opportunity to leap over the ropes onto both men as Superstars went to a break.

Superstars returned as MVP had a near fall. MVP went for a running boot on Dibiase in the corner, but Ted avoided it and eventually knocked MVP out of the ring. Dibiase went to the outside to beat on MVP. He yanked MVP's arm down on the crowd barrier then shoved him into the ringpost before putting him back into the ring for a near fall. Dibiase kept pounding away on MVP on the mat to stay in control. At one point the ref was distracted by Dibiase, allowing Rhodes to yank MVP's arm across the ringpost. MVP tried to mount a comeback but was promptly clotheslined down by Dibiase.

MVP managed to toss Dibiase as he came at him from against the ropes. MVP still struggled to get up and was favoring his hurt arms. He began to punch away at Dibiase then elbowed him down to the mat, following with a Facebuster. Next up, he hit the Ballin' elbow drop, then awaited Dibiase to stand. He went for Playmaker but Dibiase countered to escape. MVP came back with a huge boot to Dibiase to level him. He had a near fall, with Rhodes going on the side apron to try to distract the ref. Mark Henry came over to grab Rhodes off the apron and throw him against the ringpost. Dibiase went for a neckbreaker, but MVP countered it and rolled him into a small package to secure the pinfall victory.

Mark Henry and MVP celebrated with the arms raised in the ring as Superstars went off the air.

Winner: MVP wins via pinfall over Ted Dibiase.

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Regal's ECW Crowning?

On Tuesday night's episode of ECW on SyFy, William Regal finally got what he wanted from GM Tiffany and ECW champ Christian: a shot at the ECW title. Regal's been wreaking havoc on the entire ECW roster for weeks now, along with his henchmen Ezekiel Jackson and Vladimir Kozlov. That all came to a head last week, when Regal and his men attacked Yoshi Tatsu and Christian following their competitive ECW title match.

Last night, Regal once again got involved, this time after Christian and Yoshi beat Kozlov/Jackson in a tag match. Christian scored the pinfall after a Killswitch on Kozlov. Regal soon rushed the ring and attacked, and with the help of his men, they destroyed Christian in and outside the ring. Earlier in the night, Christian demanded Regal come out so they could settle things in the ring. ECW's lovely GM Tiffany came out to try to convince Christian not to give into Regal's demands, but Christian had had enough. Tiffany finally gave in to what her superstars wanted, a title matchup.

The Christian-Regal match is scheduled for next week's ECW, and because Regal demanded it, it will be held in his home territory of Sheffield in the UK. That definitely spells for the crowning of a new champ, and it almost appears that way a mile away. Tiffany was able to get a stipulation, that Regal can't have his bodyguards at ringside for the contest. You've got to believe he'll still have some tricks up his sleeve, perhaps involving brass knuckles, or we'll see a heel turn for Yoshi Tatsu, costing Christian the ECW belt.

Next week's ECW also carries another interesting stipulation-based match, although it's not as big as the ECW title. Paul Burchill issued a challenge to Hurricane for a match. If Burchill wins, Hurricane unmasks. If Burchill loses, he and Katie Lea leave ECW. We all now what Helms looks like under his mask, but he could possibly substitute another wrestler in his place just to toy with Burchill.

So we may possibly see both Christian and Burchill wind up somewhere else after next week's big event in England. With the arrival of Vance Archer, and the rise of stars like Zack Ryder/Yoshi Tatsu, ECW continues to bring in new talents. Shelton Benjamin seems to be the heir apparent ECW title contender once Christian is finished.

Feel free to leave your thoughts on Tuesday's ECW show, or your predictions for next week's big matches..

ECW Recap 11.03.09

ECW Recap from Providence, RI:

A video highlighting last week's ECW title match between champ Christian and challenger Yoshi Tatsu was shown. Yoshi seemed to have serious momentum and several near falls, but ultimately Christian hit the Killswitch on him to preserve his title. As Christian went over to commend his opponent on the mat, both men fell victim to an attack by William Regal, Vladimir Kozlov and Ezekiel Jackson in the ring.

The champion Christian made his way out to the ring to start things off. Christian demanded that Regal come out to the ring immediately so he could confront him for what went down last week. Christian waited and when Regal didn't show, he said he'd go backstage to find him. He was about to leave the ring when ECW's GM Tiffany arrived out from backstage. Tiffany apologized for what happened saying it was a response to her decision. She told Christian not to give in to Regal's demands, but Christian said he didn't care any more and wants the match to happen. Just then, Regal came out from backstage with his two henchmen.

Regal said he holds the advantage here and asked Christian if he wants the match bad enough to make it an ECW title shot. Christian said sure and to do it right now. Tiffany stopped them saying that they already are scheduled in other matches tonight. Christian told her to re-schedule them, because he's in the building where he won his first ECW championship. Christian said he wants to defend the title in front of his Providence peeps. With a smile on his face, Regal said he's the one in control, and said he'll only accept the title match in front of a deserving crowd, not the Providence one. Regal said he wants the title match in England on next week's show. Christian accepted the terms and Tiffany made it official. Tiffany said Jackson and Kozlov are banned from ringside. She told Regal he's in action next.

Regal made his way to the ring and as he got the apron was hit by a baseball slide dropkick from Christian. Tiffany started to yell at Christian while Jackson/Kozlov rushed down to check on Regal.

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Goldust vs. William Regal

Commentators Byron Saxton and Josh Matthews discussed how hellbent Regal has been on getting the ECW title. Regal shook off the effects of being dropkicked by Christian earlier. He had control on Goldust keeping him down in a headlock, but Goldust fought to get to his feet, then took Regal down with clotheslines and punches. Goldust built momentum as the match went on, hitting a powerslam on Regal followed by a takedown to the mat. He rushed Regal in the corner, with Regal avoiding it. Regal quickly ran at Goldust to hit the Knee Trembler, KOing the Bizarre one for the victory.

Winner: William Regal wins via pinfall over Goldust.

Zack Ryder was checking himself out in a mirror when new ECW diva Rosa Mendes came walking up. She said she's announcing his match tonight. As Rosa kept talking, Zack started to daydream about her. She asked if he liked her new outfit and Zack said "you know it", then squeezed the bottle he was holding until liquid squirted out.

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ECW returned with Rosa Mendes in the ring as guest ring announcer. She said she had been practicing all day and was a bit nervous. A WWE staffer came over to tell her to get on with it. Rosa introduced Zack Ryder first then his opponent, Shelton Benjamin.

Shelton Benjamin vs. Zack Ryder

Late in the match, Shelton knocked Ryder to the outside right near where Rosa was seated. Shelton went out and collected Ryder to put back in the ring. As Shelton got on the apron, Ryder grabbed the rope to yank Benjamin in. Shelton did a flip over the top rope, landing on both feet behind Ryder. Ryder was distracted as he became mesmerized with Rosa outside the ring and ended up eating the Paydirt finisher from Shelton. Rosa got up and announced Shelton as winner of the match.

Winner: Shelton Benjamin wins via pinfall over Zack Ryder.

In tonight's main event, Christian teams with Yoshi Tatsu to battle Ezekiel Jackson and Vladimir Kozlov.

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When ECW returned Josh Matthews discussed how many WWF/WWE superstars have hailed from "Parts unknown". He said with Chris Jericho's help, fans are trying to discover the "Bermuda Triangle" of Superstars on WWE.com.

Paul Burchill and Katie Lea were in the ring. Burchill said he told Gregory Helms to have The Hurricane meet him in the ring tonight. Burchill started saying he was a no show, but then Hurricane's theme video started. Hurricane came out with a green Kendo stick and mic in hand. Burchill told him Halloween's over, and Helms said it lasts year round for some people such as Katie Lea. Burchill told Hurricane he's a fraud, because he's duped fans into thinking he's a superhero. Burchill said he's well spoken, and has good family values, yet the fans root for Hurricane. Hurricane said maybe it's because the fans like to have fun just like him. He also said "chicks dig superheroes". Burchill was irate and challenged Hurricane to one more match. Burchill said if he wins, Hurricane must unmask to expose himself. Burchill said if he loses, he and his sister will leave ECW. Hurricane gladly accepted.

Abraham Washington was walking with Tony Atlas backstage. Abe was complaining about Regal tearing apart his set last week. He started talking to Atlas about all the new set stuff they could buy once Tiffany approves it. He said he'd even get a sound efx machine for Atlas to use. They went to Tiffany's office and knocked on the door, and a large new wrestler came walking out. Tiffany came out and Abe asked who that was. Tiffany said it's the newest ECW star, Vance Archer, and he's intense.

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ECW returned with highlights from Monday Night Raw hosted by Ozzy and Sharon Osbourne. They showed highlights of Raw's got Talent which was judged by Sharon, Ozzy and Great Khali. The last contestants were Jillian Hall and Chavo doing a duet which the crowd booed. Jillian and Chavo took exception when they were given the buzzer by Ozzy and Sharon so they went to the ring. Jillian got in Sharon's face and ended up getting slapped. Chavo also got chopped down by Great Khali, then hit with a Tadpole Frogsplash from Hornswoggle dressed as Jack Osbourne.

Logan Jones vs. Vance Archer

Jones was announced as a local Providence, RI wrestler to face the new "intense wrestler" Vance Archer. Vance immediately shoved Jones out through the ropes. Archer was 6'8, and clearly towered over his competitor. He roughed him up in the corner before hitting a slam move followed by his inverted suplex style finisher. Archer made quick work of Jones in about 2 minutes or so.

Winner: Vance Archer wins via pinfall over Logan Jones.

Christian and Yoshi Tatsu were walking backstage, ready for their main event tag match.

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Next week, William Regal gets his official championship match against Christian in England.

Christian & Yoshi Tatsu vs. Ezekiel Jackson & Vladimir Kozlov

Kozlov got Christian up on one shoulder for a move, but the champ managed to escape and slide off. Christian ducked another move then hit an inverted DDT. Jackson rushed in to break up the pinfall. Yoshi came in to aid Christian, and together they tossed Jackson to the outside. Yoshi did a dive over the top rope onto Jackson. Kozlov grabbed Christian and tossed him over his back to the mat. However, Kozlov missed as he charged at Christian in the corner. Christian hit a DDT move, then waited for Kozlov to get up and was able to hit Killswitch to win it.

There wasn't much victory celebration as William Regal quickly arrived to attack. Christian fought him off for a bit, until Jackson got back in the ring and clubbed Christian from behind. Kozlov got up to help with the beating, with Yoshi seeming to be taken out outside the ring. The heel trio dragged Christian over to the ringpost where Jackson and Kozlov yanked Christian against the ringpost so he hurt his side. They continue beating on him, with Regal putting the Regal stretch on him outside the ring. Christian screamed in pain from the attack. ECW ended with Regal, Kozlov and Jackson admiring their work on the fallen champion.

Winners: Christian & Yoshi Tatsu win via pinfall over Vladimir Kozlov & Ezekiel Jackson.

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