AUSTIN, Texas - Just two days after the electrifying 25th Anniversary of WrestleMania, the Land of the Extreme shook things up with a change in leadership and the promise of a championship match at Backlash.

Theodore Long new SmackDown General Manager; Tiffany new interim General Manager of ECW; Elimination Chase Announced
Hot on the heels of Vickie Guerrero's announcement that she would become the permanent General Manager of Monday Night Raw, ECW General Manager Theodore Long revealed that he will once again take the reigns as SmackDown General Manager. Long announced that his assistant, Tiffany, would become the new interim General Manager of ECW.

When ECW Champion Jack Swagger interrupted, Tiffany informed him that Christian, Tommy Dreamer, Finlay and Mark Henry would compete in an Elimination Chase over the next few weeks to see who will face The "All-American American" at Backlash.

Mark Henry eliminated from the Elimination Chase to Backlash in a Fatal Four Way Match
In the culmination of an action-packed Fatal Four Way Match, Finlay once again employed the trusted help of his shillelagh to defeat Henry, walloping The World's Strongest Man out of the Elimination Chase as he was attempting The World's Strongest Slam on Tommy Dreamer. As a result, The Belfast Brawler will face Christian and Dreamer in a Triple Threat Match next week.

Unified WWE Tag Team Champions Carlito & Primo & Evan Bourne def. John Morrison, The Miz, & Tyson Kidd (Six-Man Tag Match)
After Primo hit the Backstabber on Tyson Kidd, the high-flying Evan Bourne dropped his gravity-defying Shooting Star Press on the last graduate of the legendary Hart Dungeon. The exciting victory comes just two days after Carlito & Primo triumphed over Miz & Morrison to become the first Unified WWE Tag Team Champions on The Grandest Stage of Them All.

Source: WWE.com

DALLAS – The Road to WrestleMania is finally approaching its ultimate destination. And with the immense shadow of The Grandest State of Them All hanging over the Land of the Extreme, every inch of the squared-circle was overflowing with aggressive anticipation.

Mark Henry & Kane def. Christian & Finlay
After delivering a vicious double-clothesline to The Belfast Brawler and Captain Charisma, Mark Henry caught the reemerging Christian off the top rope in mid-air, sending him crashing back down to earth with the World's Strongest Slam. After the bell, Henry continued wrecking havoc by ripping through his partner Kane with a surprise, follow-up clothesline. The World's Strongest Man echoed the fact that there will be no allies when eight Superstars compete in the Money in the Bank Ladder Match at The 25th Anniversary of WrestleMania.

Nikki Bella def. Brie Bella
When World Tag Team Champion The Miz & John Morrison jumped onto the ring apron, Nikki Bella used the distraction to roll her sister Brie up for the win. But will "The Dirt Sheet" co-stars be able to utilize such cunning trickery when they lock horns with WWE Tag Team Champions Carlito and Primo to decide the Unified Tag Team Lumberjack Match?

Don't miss all the action on The Grandest Stage of Them All, WrestleMania, April 5, 2009, at 7 / 6CT only on pay-per-view.

Source: WWE.com

DALLAS – With just days to go before the 25th Anniversary of WrestleMania, you might expect the WWE Superstars to take it easy and conserve their energy. That wasn't the case on Monday night, as several ring warriors competing at WrestleMania found themselves in a hell of their own making. John Cena not only suffered a crushing defeat at the hands of The World's Largest Athlete, but was further battered after the match by vengeful World Heavyweight Champion Edge. Most shocking, however, was when Randy Orton began to reap what he has sown, being confronted by three angry members of the family he has spent the last few months terrorizing and picking off one-by-one: The McMahons.

Randy Orton gives his WrestleMania address; Orton and his "Legacy" were confronted and attacked by the WWE Champion, Mr. McMahon & Shane McMahon
Accompanied by Cody Rhodes, Ted DiBiase and a group of security guards, Randy Orton came to the ring for his special WrestleMania address. While describing his reprehensible actions in recent months (punting Mr. McMahon and Shane McMahon, attacking Triple H's wife Stephanie on multiple occasions), The Legend Killer explained how every step of the way was part of a plan to destroy everything The Game cares about. He then began detailing how the balance of power in WWE would permanently shift in his favor following his WrestleMania win.

But before Orton could finish outlining his twisted vision of the future, a black limo arrived. Though the third-generation Superstar expected WWE Champion Triple H to make an appearance, calling Rhodes & DiBiase to his side, he was stunned by who accompanied him. Joining The Game on the stage were Mr. McMahon and his son, Shane. The three family members made their way down the ramp, where they collided with Orton and his "Legacy," ending Raw in a massive, heated WrestleMania-bound brawl.

Kane def. CM Punk, Kofi Kingston, Christian, United States Champion MVP, Finlay, Mark Henry and Shelton Benjamin in an Eight-Man Over-the-Top Rope Battle Royal
The 25th Anniversary of WrestleMania will host the Money in the Bank Ladder Match, but on Raw, the match's participants competed in an Eight-Man Over the Top Rope Battle Royal. Ladder Matches require a host of skills, including speed, endurance, and a Superstar's willingness to take risks, but on Raw, the sheer force and power of Kane enabled him to taste victory. Following the match, The Big Red Monster climbed a ladder in the center of the ring to symbolically grab the briefcase suspended above the ring.

Shawn Michaels holds a funeral for Undertaker's undefeated WrestleMania streak; The Phenom emerged and received some Sweet Chin Music from HBK
When Shawn Michaels came to the ring, it became clear that the "funeral" announced earlier in the night was not for HBK, but rather for the undefeated WrestleMania streak of his opponent, Undertaker. Complete with a casket, roses and images of Michaels defeating The Deadman in their past encounters, the service saw HBK boast of his actions during recent weeks: Kicking Undertaker in the face and trespassing on his hollowed cemetery. The Showstopper announced that he had done all of this without enduring any retribution, and promised that the most memorable moment of the 25th Anniversary of WrestleMania would be his victory over The Phenom.

Just then, the arena darkened and a gong rang out, heralding the arrival of Undertaker. When the lights came back up, The Phenom stood in the ring, but Michaels was nowhere to be seen. As The Deadman searched, HBK emerged from under the casket and once again laid Undertaker out with a superkick.

Big Show def. John Cena, who was attacked by Edge after the match
In a preview of some of the intense in-ring action the WWE Universe can expect to see at the 25th Anniversary of WrestleMania, two-thirds of the World Heavyweight Title Triple Threat Match, John Cena and Big Show, squared off in the ring. The World's Largest Athlete sent an exceptionally clear message to the 12 Rounds star, using his immense size and power advantage to defeat Cena. But even after the bell rang, Cena's suffering wasn't over. The maniacal Edge ran to the ring from the crowd, making eye contact with Big Show before he viciously assaulted their WrestleMania opponent, perhaps taking revenge for Cena's earlier refusal to work together against The World's Largest Athlete.

Rey Mysterio def. Intercontinental Champion JBL in a non-title match
Intercontinental Champion JBL has promised to deliver the most decisive victory in WrestleMania history when he puts his title on the line against Rey Mysterio. However, The Longhorn Loudmouth might need to reconsider his strategy after suffering a loss to The Master of the 619 during a non-title match on Raw.

Cody Rhodes & Ted DiBiase claimed that Randy Orton's WrestleMania address affects the entire WWE Universe; Shawn Michaels arrives in a hearse
Elsewhere in the locker room area, Randy Orton's "Legacy" cohorts, Cody Rhodes & Ted DiBiase announced that their leader's WrestleMania address wasn't directed at Triple H, but rather at the entire WWE Universe. The two went on to promise that after WrestleMania, everything about WWE would change forever.

Outside of the arena, a black hearse had been waiting since the start of the show. The WWE Universe was shocked to find out that the hearse did not contain the grim Undertaker, but rather a confident Shawn Michaels, casting an air of uncertainty over the previously announced "Funeral for Mr. WrestleMania."

Chris Jericho def. Jerry "The King" Lawler
Though younger members of the WWE Universe might know Jerry Lawler as one of the voices of Raw, "The King" also boasts a distinguished in-ring career. Incensed over Chris Jericho's recent brutal attack on WWE Hall of Famer Ric Flair, Lawler challenged the nefarious Superstar to a match on Raw. In spite of his opponent's extensive experience, it was the cruel, vicious style of Jericho that prevailed, forcing the Raw announcer to submit.

During the match it was announced that the first-ever Undisputed Champion's WrestleMania match against "Rowdy" Roddy Piper, Jimmy "Superfly" Snuka & Ricky "The Dragon" Steamboat would require Jericho to defeat each Legend individually. After his victory, the nefarious Superstar made clear his intention to annihilate each of his opponents in turn, making his own name synonymous with "Legend."

Tiffany won an 18-Diva Tag Team Match for her team; Santino Marella was attacked when he announced he still plans to compete in the 25-Diva Battle Royal
At the 25th Anniversary of WrestleMania, a 25-Diva Battle Royal will be held to determine the first "Miss WrestleMania." Opening Raw, 18 of those Divas squared off in a massive tag team match. Out of the chaos that ensued, Tiffany emerged victorious, pinning Katie Lea Burchill to lead her team to victory.

Directly following the match, Santino Marella made his way out to the ring. In spite of being denied entry to the Battle Royal the week before courtesy of a loss to Mickie James, the Italian Superstar is still intent on becoming "Miss WrestleMania." To illustrate his worthiness, Santino showed off his "mankini" as part of an impromptu swimsuit competition. The Divas didn't take kindly to the scantily clad Superstar's claims of superiority and a massive melee broke out with the "Santino's Casa" star right in the middle, though the craven Italian managed to escape.

Source: WWE.com

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A special edition of MVP's VIP Lounge turned into an Extreme argument between the Money in the Bank Ladder Match competitors on ECW on Sci Fi Tuesday night. But one Big Red Superstar stood tall below the coveted briefcase just 12 days before the 25th Anniversary of WrestleMania.

United States Champion MVP's VIP Lounge
New United States Champion MVP brought his VIP Lounge to the Land of the Extreme on Tuesday night. His special guests were his Money in the Bank Ladder Match competitors, Shelton Benjamin, Christian, CM Punk, Mark Henry, Finlay, Kofi Kingston and Kane. The Ballin' Superstar couldn't keep control of his Lounge full of 25th Anniversary of WrestleMania opponents. As the Money in the Bank briefcase hung above the ring, all the Superstars ended up arguing, except for one – Kane. The Big Red Machine stood watching his WrestleMania competitors fight, making an even bolder statement himself when they scattered from the ring and left him alone below the briefcase. Which Superstar will walk away from WrestleMania as Mr. Money in the Bank?

WWE Tag Team Champion Carlito def. World Tag Team Champion John Morrison
With Brie Bella and his brother and fellow WWE Tag Team Champion, Primo, in his corner, Carlito defeated World Tag Team Champion John Morrison on ECW on Sci Fi this week. Halfway through the match, ECW General Manager Theodore Long announced that the Unified WWE Tag Team Championship Match at the 25th Anniversary of WrestleMania will be a Lumberjack Match, and Superstars such a The Great Khali, Mike Knox and R-Truth entered the arena before Carlito hit Morrison with a Backstabber and pinned him for the victory as World Tag Champ The Miz & Nikki Bella watched from his corner. Which tag team will be the Unified Champions after WrestleMania?

Tommy Dreamer & Evan Bourne def. ECW Champion Jack Swagger & Tyson Kidd
In just his second week back from injury on ECW on Sci Fi, Evan Bourne dominated the competition, earning a tag team victory for himself and ECW Original Tommy Dreamer over ECW Champion Jack Swagger & Tyson Kidd. During Bourne's five-month absence, exciting newcomer Kidd emerged on the Extreme scene and remained undefeated, but now that "Air" Bourne has returned, which high-flying, young Superstar will prove to be the greatest?

Source: WWE.com

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – With the 25th Anniversary of WrestleMania right around the corner, Raw was a tense affair. After World Heavyweight Champion Edge leveled Big Show with a spear the week before, the two's relationship deteriorated to a point where they were ready to face off on Raw – a match that ended with The World's Largest Athlete K.O.ing The Rated-R Superstar. Even more brutal however, The Legend Killer and his "Legacy" viciously attacked not only WWE Champion Triple H, but also his wife, Stephanie McMahon, whose unconscious body Orton kissed as a restrained Cerebral Assassin had no choice but to look on.

WWE Champion Triple H vs. Randy Orton & Ted DiBiase ends in a brawl; Orton & "Legacy" attack Triple H and Stephanie McMahon
Hoping to deliver some payback to WWE Champion Triple H after he decimated Cody Rhodes the week before, Randy Orton faced his WrestleMania opponent in a 2-on-1 Handicap Match, with Ted DiBiase at his side. Triple H had barely entered the ring when the three men launched themselves at each other. Looking for an equalizer, The Game went under the ring apron to retrieve his signature sledgehammer, but was confronted by Rhodes, who had been lying in wait. The Legend Killer and his fellow multi-generational Superstars then attacked the WWE Champion, handcuffing him to the ropes.

With The Game restrained, Orton said that there was only one person who could save Triple H and that she better come out. Against the warnings of the WWE Champion, a terrified Stephanie McMahon made her way down the entrance ramp. After climbing onto the ring apron, the Executive Vice President had second thoughts and tried to get away, but her path was blocked by Rhodes & DiBiase. Orton then grabbed her, delivering a vicious DDT from the second rope. Playing further mind games with The Cerebral Assassin, The Legend Killer leaned down and kissed the unconscious Stephanie, taunting Triple H before clobbering him with a sledgehammer.

Mickie James def. Santino Marella in an Intergender Match
At the 25th Anniversary of WrestleMania, an appropriate number of Divas (25) will compete in a Battle Royal to determine who will be given the title of Miss WrestleMania. Santino Marella, however, was incensed that he would be denied an opportunity to compete in this match solely due to his gender. So, Raw's interim General Manager, Vickie Guerrero, told The Italian Superstar that he could earn a spot in the match by defeating Mickie James with one arm tied behind his back. Unfortunately for Marella, he missed out on his opportunity to become Miss WrestleMania after The Glamazon inadvertently knocked him off the turnbuckle, allowing Mickie to pick up the win after a quick kick.

Undertaker appears to warn Shawn Michaels; HBK addresses The Phenom from a graveyard
SmackDown Superstar Undertaker emerged on Raw to warn his WrestleMania opponent of what's in store for him on The Grandest Stage of Them All. The Phenom noted that while it's true that he has never defeated HBK, the last time they faced, Michaels' body was so broken that he spent the next five years recovering. Not one to be outdone, Shawn Michaels appeared, addressing Undertaker from a graveyard. HBK made it known that he isn't afraid of his match with Undertaker, and won't be intimidated. The Showstopper went on to promise that Undertaker would be the one to rest in peace.

Rey Mysterio def. William Regal
The week before, new Intercontinental Champion JBL accepted Rey Mysterio's challenge to a match at the 25th Anniversary of WrestleMania with the title at stake. On Raw, the self-made millionaire gave William Regal and Layla a lift to the ring in his limo for The British Brawler's match against The Master of the 619. During the contest, the Intercontinental Champion sat at commentary, laying out his plan to experience one of the most decisive victories in WrestleMania history. Mysterio experienced a decisive victory of his own, hitting Regal with a 619 and pinning his opponent. After the match, JBL approached the ring, clapping and mocking The Ultimate Underdog, but Mysterio had the last laugh, delivering a sliding kick to The Longhorn Loudmouth.

World Heavyweight Champion Edge vs. Big Show ended in a no contest
Prior to the match between World Heavyweight Champion Edge and Big Show, John Cena sent a special get well card to Vickie Guerrero and promised that he would be on Raw the following week. During the match, Edge's wife and Big Show's lover, Vickie Guerrero, looked on from ringside with her nephew, Chavo Guerrero. Upset by the sight of her two men beating the living daylights out of one another, Vickie sent Chavo in to break them up. Edge went to spear Big Show, but when The World's Largest Athlete moved out of the way, Chavo was the recipient of Edge's attack. This gave Big Show just the opportunity he needed, clobbering Edge with a knockout punch.

CM Punk, Kofi Kingston, Christian & United States Champion MVP def. Kane, Mark Henry, Finlay & Shelton Benjamin
Giving the eight participants a chance to size one another up prior to the Money in the Bank Ladder Match at the 25th Anniversary of WrestleMania, CM Punk, Kofi Kingston, Christian & United States Champion MVP took on the team of Kane, Mark Henry, Finlay & Shelton Benjamin. Sending a clear message to the other ring warriors, Christian pinned Shelton Benjamin to lead his team to victory. But his celebration was cut short as another ECW Superstar, Finlay attacked, clearing the ring with a ladder.

Jeff Hardy def. Dolph Ziggler in an Extreme Rules Match
In just a matter of weeks, Jeff Hardy will face his brother Matt in a contest at the 25th Anniversary of WrestleMania, contested under Extreme Rules. In an effort to show his devious brother just what's in store for him, The Charismatic Enigma competed in an Extreme Rules Match against the ambitious Dolph Ziggler. However, Ziggler's aggression wasn't enough to stand against the relentless assault of Hardy, who picked up the win. Afterward, Hardy promised his brother that what he just saw wasn't extreme, but their match at WrestleMania will be.

Ric Flair accepts Chris Jericho's challenge on behalf of Roddy Piper, Jimmy Snuka & Ricky Steamboat; Jericho attacks Flair, prompting Jerry Lawler to challenge Jericho to a match
Raw was opened by none other than WWE Hall of Famer Ric Flair, accepting Chris Jericho's challenge to a 3-on-1 Handicap Match at the 25th Anniversary of WrestleMania on behalf of "Rowdy" Roddy Piper, Jimmy "Superfly" Snuka and Ricky Steamboat. Additionally, The "Nature Boy" announced that he would be watching all of the action from the WWE Legends' corner. 'Naitch was then interrupted by Chris Jericho, who, continuing to kick dirt on Piper, Snuka, Steamboat and Flair himself, announced his intention to beat and humiliate the WWE Legends.

The "Nature Boy" had other ideas, and began describing how he imagined the night going, but was interrupted by a vicious punch from Jericho. The first-ever Undisputed Champion proceeded to brutally beat Flair, smashing him into the steel stairs, tearing his suit off of him and even destroying the gold watch given to 'Naitch by Shawn Michaels after WrestleMania XXIV . Later in the show, fed up with the complete lack of respect Jericho has shown toward the WWE Legends, Lawler challenged the first-ever Undisputed Champion to a match on the next Raw.

Source: WWE.com

NEW ORLEANS – ECW Champion Matt Hardy was put to the test tonight against the World's Strongest Man Mark Henry. But next week, the champion must face the undefeated Jack Swagger for the ECW Championship.

ECW Champion Matt Hardy def. Mark Henry (Non-title match)
Mark Henry came into the match with revenge on his mind after failing to get a win over the ECW Champion last week, due to interference from Jack Swagger. The intense rivalry between Hardy and the World's Strongest Man showed no signs of slowing in 2009. In the end, Hardy got the better of Henry once again, defeating the nearly 400-pounder with a Twist of Fate.

Jack Swagger def. Finlay
In a grueling contest, No. 1 contender Jack Swagger took on the veteran Finlay, in their first one-on-one encounter ever. Using his power, agility and aggressiveness, the 256-pound Swagger was able to wear Finlay down. In the end, the young Superstar made a bold statement by finishing off the Belfast Brawler with a gutwrench powerbomb to pick up the pinfall.

ECW Champion Matt Hardy vs. Jack Swagger announced
Shortly after Swagger's win over Finlay, he reminded ECW General Manager Theodore Long of his series of impressive wins over recent weeks. After Swagger rattled off his accomplishments, Long announced the youngster would finally have his big opportunity. Next week, it will be Jack Swagger vs. ECW Champion Matt Hardy for the ECW Title. The cocky Swagger then predicted that he would be the new champion, as well as the new face of the ECW franchise.

Katie Lea Burchill def. Alicia Fox
In her first-ever singles match in WWE, Alicia took on Katie Lea, who made her first in-ring appearance on ECW. Fox had DJ Gabriel in her corner, while Burchill had her brother, Paul, in her corner for support. Both Divas looked sharp, and it could have been anyone's night to claim a victory. However, in the end, it was Katie Lea who was able to overpower Fox, and slam her lower back into a waiting knee to pick up the pinfall.

Last week in her blog on WWE Universe, Katie Lea said one of her goals for 2009 was to "beat up Little Miss Saturday Night Fever." Although Katie Lea succeeded on this night, Fox will surely be looking for an opportunity to display her ring prowess again.

Boogeyman def. local competitor
In a macabre mauling, Boogeyman crushed a local athlete who probably wished he never set foot in the ring against the ghoulish Superstar. After the match, the hapless challenger received Boogeyman's signature humiliating finisher – a slimy mouthful of worms.

Source: WWE.com

BALTIMORE – The fallout from Armageddon carried over into the Land of Extreme, as ECW Champion Matt Hardy found himself not only having to defend the name of his brother and new WWE Champion, Jeff Hardy, but his ECW Championship as well.

World Tag Team Champions & Jack Swagger def. CM Punk, Kofi Kingston & Ricky Ortiz
CM Punk and Kofi Kingston came into the night's match with an opportunity at avenging their loss of the World Tag Team Championship to John Morrison and The Miz. Despite a valiant effort, it was the cocky youngster, "The All-American American" Jack Swagger, who brought victory to his team by destroying Ricky Ortiz with a brutal gutwrench powerbomb.

ECW Champion Matt Hardy def. Chavo Guerrero
Chavo Guerrero got more than he bargained for when he followed orders from SmackDown General Manager Vickie Guerrero to "take care" of ECW Champion Matt Hardy on ECW.

ECW Champion Matt Hardy kicked off ECW by congratulating his brother and new WWE Champion Jeff Hardy. However, Chavo interrupted claiming Matt helped Jeff steal the WWE Championship from Edge. But before more verbal barbs could be thrown at Hardy, ECW General Manager Theodore Long entered the arena to inform Chavo that the two would square off right then and there in a title match. In the end, Chavo couldn't back up his words as the champion silenced the self-proclaimed "Mexican Warrior" with a Twist of Fate, successfully defending his title.

Finlay def. Gavin Spears
Fresh off a victory over Mark Henry in a Belfast Brawl at Armageddon, Finlay continued his winning ways by defeating Gavin Spears with a Celtic Cross. And just like at Armageddon, Finlay's good luck charm proved to be his son, Hornswoggle, who was at ringside. The pint-sized prankster was up to his old tricks, splashing water on ECW announcer Matt Striker at the start of the match, and stealing Striker's "Announce Team of the Year" Slammy from the announce table.

Taken from: WWE.com

Vladimir Kozlov def. ECW Champion Matt Hardy (non title match)
Kozlov has Matt in a submission hold in the middle of the ring. Matt counters with some kicks. Kozlov gets Matt Hardy up and slams him back to the mat. Pin attempt by Kozlov, two count only. Another submission hold by Kozlov but Matt counters. Hard right hands from Matt, they don't have much effect. Kozlov starts to headbutt Matt in his chest. Matt hits the mat, Kozlov gets a two count. Arm lock from Kozlov, Matt fights back at a vertical base. When Matt tries to counter, Kozlov takes him down and gets another two count. Kozlov is working the left arm of Matt. Loud chants for Matt Hardy, Kozlov wrenches back on the submission. Matt finally makes it to the ropes to break the hold. Matt mounts offense on the ring apron. He buries his head into Kozlov's mid section and goes off the top rope with a double axe handle. Matt finally throws Kozlov out of the ring. Matt jumps to the outside, Kozlov catches him. Matt counters and starts to slam Kozlov into the steel ring post. Matt puts Kozlov back in the ring, he goes for the Side Effect, he connects for a two count.

Matt Hardy's left arm is bleeding from a cut sustained from Kozloz. Matt sets up Twist of Fate, Kozlov counters out. Kozlov counters again and gets a two count on Matt. Small package roll-up from Matt onto Kozlov, not enough as Kozlov kicks out. Matt backs Kozlov into the corner and pounds at his face. Kozlov counters and slams Matt's head off the top of the ring post. Kozlov slams Matt Hardy down and gets the three count.

CM Punk def. Rey Mysterio (Intercontinental Title Tournament Finals)
The bell rings and the match is underway. CM Punk extends his hand, they shake. They lockup and Mysterio goes for the early advantage. Mysterio gets a quick roll-through pin for a quick one count. Punk takes Mysterio down and ties his legs up. Punk locks in a submission hold on Mysterio. Punk gets to his feet but Mysterio connects with a drop toe hold. Punk applies a wrist lock, Mysterio back on his feet.

Past paced combination of pins. Neither has gained an advantage as Mysterio hits another drop toe hold and goes for the 619. Punk counters with an arm drag. Punk goes for the GTS but Mysterio counters with an arm drag. Punk tosses Mysterio out of the ring. He's at the feet of William Regal and Layla. Referee starts the count out. Punk dives over the top rope onto Mysterio as Regal looks on. Punk rolls Mysterio back in the ring and goes for the cover for two. Punk hits a knee to the spine followed by a two count. Punk locks in a submission hold on Mysterio. Punk breaks the hold and goes back on offense. Mysterio builds a counter and ends up on the apron. Mysterio goes to the top, Punk trips him. Mysterio in the tree of woe position, Punk hits him in the face. Punk runs at Mysterio, Mysterio counters with a knee. Moonsault off the top from Mysterio onto Punk. Two count only.

Punk counters with a scoop slam as Mysterio goes off the ropes. Punk applies a submission hold on Mysterio's wrist on the mat. Punk wrenches back on the hold as Mysterio goes for the ropes. Punk hooks in an STFU type hold and wrenches back. Mysterio finally makes it to the ropes. Mysterio builds an amazing counter and locks in an arm bar on Punk. The hold gets the crowd going as Punk does a great job selling. Punk gets to the ropes, breaking the hold. Mysterio is on the apron working with Punk. He jumps off the top and hits a missile dropkick. The force sends Punk to the outside. Mysterio to the top rope, Punk on the outside. Suicide dive, Mysterio takes out Punk on the outside. Punk is rolled back in by Rey. Mysterio goes off the top and hits more offense. Cross-body lateral press by Mysterio, he gets a two count on Punk. Mysterio rolls through for a pin, Punk rolls through for one of his own. Two near falls.

Punk drops Mysterio face first on the turnbuckle and connects on Mysterio with a knee to the jaw. Punk nearly got the three count as Regal thought that he did. Mysterio nearly stole the win off a counter and a roll-up. Punk gets back up and hits a kick. Punk charges at Mysterio but he sets him up for 619, he doesn't connect. Punk goes for the Go To Sleep (GTS) but The Master of 619 counters out. Mysterio hits the 619! Splash off the top rope from Rey onto Punk. Mysterio ends up getting a two count off the amazing offense. Mysterio ends up on Punk's shoulders and Punk is able to hit GTS. Punk pins Mysterio and wins the tournament. He will go on to feud with William Regal for the Intercontinental Title.

HBK reveals deal with JBL
JBL comes to the ring wearing a full suit and cowboy hat. JBL says that he would like to introduce his newest employee. And he is... Shawn Michaels. Michaels comes out in street clothes. Michaels gets on the mic and says that he is going to get right to it. Michaels says he is not immune to the bad economy; that he is in a tough spot right now and he's heard all the whispers; that despite being a WWE superstar and TV, he's not rich. He also says like a lot of 20 year-olds, he spent money on everything; that he paid for all his surgeries himself. He talks about his wife and his two children; about how he had a financial adviser invest his money and; about how much money he gave away. He says he doesn't know how much time that he has left. There's a long period of silence as Michaels talks about all of the people that depend on him. And he says that because of all of this, he took JBL up on his offer.

Michaels says he doesn't like JBL anymore than any people and that he is smug and a bully and he is reprehensible, but the man is good financially and that is what he needs. Michaels vows to put his kids through college and safe his brother and sisters houses. Michaels starts to scream, saying that he doesn't want to become a wrestling tragedy where he's bagging groceries or wrestling in a high school gym.

Michaels says that this is something that he wants and he had to do. JBL extends his hand to Michaels, they shake. Lots of heat from the crowd, including 'you sold out' chants at HBK. JBL gets out of the ring as Michaels looks dejected in the ring.

Finlay def. Mark Henry (Belfast Brawl)
In the Belfast Brawl, the only way to win is by pinfall or submission.

Finlay hits clubbing blows on Henry, they have little effect. The fight goes to the outside. Finlay starts to build momentum as he trips Mark Henry, face first into the announce table. They work together on the outside, Henry bounces Finlay off the crowd control barrier. Finlay gets on the ring apron and tries to take out Henry on the outside. Henry pulls his legs out from underneath him, causing Finlay to hit his head as he falls off the apron. Fight goes back to the ring. Henry goes off the ropes, he misses a splash. Kicks from Finlay to Henry. Finlay throws two kendo sticks and a trash can in the ring from underneath. Tony Atlas is just watching Finlay throws the stuff in the ring. Atlas connects a trash can lid shot Finlay. Finlay gets back in the ring, takes another from Henry into a trash can. Henry dominates Finlay in the ring.

Lots of heat on Henry but he's taking a lot of time. Henry connects on a splashing maneuver where he goes to the outside. Henry pulls Finlay to the apron and gets a two count on Finlay. Henry sends Finlay into the corner. Finlay counters with a trash can shot. Finlay hits a DDT on Henry on the mat. Finlay sets a trash can up to the head of Henry and kicks it. Finlay hits another trash can blow and gets a two count. Henry starts to counter with headbutts. Henry kicks Finlay in the midsection and hits another headbutt. Henry get up for a Rikishi style splash. Henry misses, Finlay grabs the shillelagh. He walks right into a boot from Mark Henry. Mark Henry breaks Finlay's shillelagh in half. Finlay hits him with a kendo stick which does nothing but make Henry mad. He breaks the kendo stick and bear hugs Finlay. Hornswoggle is at ringside. Henry throws Finlay into him, Hornswoggle disappears under the ring. Atlas looks for him. Henry wedges a trash can between him and Finlay in the corner, putting pressure on it. He beats Finlay with a trash can lid and then kicks away at him. Hard right hand from Henry, sends Finlay to the mat. Henry throws a set of steel ring steps in the ring. Henry goes for a blow with the trash can but Finlay counters with a dropkick. Hornswoggle throws him another shillelagh. Finlay connects and gets the three count.

Batista def. Randy Orton
Batista and Orton lockup and struggle for the opening control. Batista backs Orton into the corner but Orton quickly backs him down. Another hard lockup as Orton gets a side headlock on Batista. Batista uses his strength to counter and gets out. They circle on another and lockup again. Orton gets another side headlock. Standing switch as Orton hits a drop toehold. The crowd cheers for the opening sequence. They go for another lockup but Orton kicks Batista, another headlock from Orton. Batista throws him off the ropes and sends him to the mat. The referee backs Batista down, but Orton ends up sending Batista to the outside. Cody Rhodes and Manu work over Batista on the outside with the referee distracted. The referee ejects them from ringside.

Manu and Rhodes go to the back. Batista and Orton work in the corner of the ring. Orton has control after the attack on the outside on Batista. Orton kicks Batista in the arm. Orton goes for a wrist lock, he applies it. Batista powers out of a move from Orton and ends up clotheslining Orton in the corner, again in the other corner. Batista hits more offense and gets Orton up for the Batista Bomb, Orton counters at the top and hits a neckbreaker. Orton lands a knee to Batista's head and gets a cover for a two count. Orton is working the neck of Batista with a headlock. Orton has a vice-like grip on Batista. Batista counters with power as he hits a scoop slam. Orton is in the corner, Batista works the midsection of Orton. Batista goes off the ropes, he bends down and is kicked by Orton. Batista ends up throwing Orton to the outside as Orton grabs his shoulder. Batista is on the apron, he ends up getting DDT'd to the inside. Orton gets a two count.

Orton works the knee of Batista. He begins to stomp away at The Animal. Orton drops another knee to the head of Batista. Orton rolls to the outside, he sets Batista's head up on the apron and connects with a clubbing blow. Orton beats Batista to the outside and gets back in the ring. Batista gets back in as Orton goes directly for the two count and near fall. Orton locks in a reverse chinlock on Batista in the ring. Batista is able to get back to the vertical base, he gets out of the reverse chinlock. Orton re-applies the hold except this time he wraps his legs around Batista's ribs. Orton wrenches back on the hold. Batista gets up with Orton his back. Batista backs Orton into the corners twice to break the reverse chinlock. Side slam from Batista to Orton. Both men are down in the ring. They exchange right hands in the ring. Batista ends up clotheslining Orton in the corner. He picks Orton up, but Orton gets out. Orton walks into a huge clothesline. Batista clotheslines Orton out of the ring. Batista goes to the outside where he bounces Orton's head off the ring apron. Batista rolls Orton back in.

Batista gets on the top rope, Orton starts to attack him. Batista is sitting on the top turnbuckle. Orton connects with a big superplex followed by a two count. Batista whips Orton into the ropes, he hits a spinebuster, and gets a two count. Both attempt finishers and miss. They get tangled up off the ropes and Batista ends up taking out Orton and get a two count. Orton kicks Batista in the face and hits a combination backbreaker. Orton is stalking Batista for an RKO, he doesn't get it. Slam by Batista in a counter, two count. Orton hits a DDT on Batista along with other offense. Batista is setup for Orton's kick but Batista counters and puts Orton into the ropes. Batista gets up on the middle rope and pounds Orton with right hands. Orton gets up with Batista on his shoulders but Batista counters and hits the Batista Bomb. Three count and Batista wins.

Divas Champion Michelle McCool, Maria, Mickie James and Kelly Kelly def. Victoria, Natalya, Jillian and Maryse (Santa's Little Helper Match)
Mickie James, Kelly Kelly, Divas Champion Michelle McCool and Maria on one team dressed as Santa's Little Helpers. They heel divas come out - Victoria, Maryse, Natalya and Jillian. They're in green Santa Helper outfits, the babyfaces are in red.

Mickie James and Maryse starts things out. They go back and forth as Mickie smacks Maryse in the face. Maryse tags in Natalya. She lands some shots to Mickie's face but Mickie counters and gets on top of her. Mickie smacks her and tags in Kelly Kelly. Natalya takes down Kelly Kelly in the ring. She applies a wristlock on her. Kelly Kelly counters with an elbow and lands more offense. Natalya lifts Kelly Kelly up and puts her in the heel corner. The referee is distracted as she is attacked by the heels. Clothesline by Natalya for a two count. Natalya tags in Jillian. Jillian gets a two count. Scoop slam from Jillian on Kelly Kelly. Kelly Kelly tags in Maria. Maria works with Jillian in the ring. Maria goes for the cover but Victoria makes the save. The babyfaces knock the heels off the apron in retaliation to Victoria's interference. It's Michelle McCool and Jillian in the ring. Michelle hit her finisher and gets the three count on Jillian.

World Heavyweight Champion John Cena def. Chris Jericho (World Heavyweight Championship Match)
Jericho applies a headlock on Cena and ends up sending him to the mat. Jericho stomps at Cena's neck. Jericho kicks Cena in the ribs. Cena takes Jericho down as Jericho goes to the outside. Cena follows to the outside and rolls Jericho back in. Jericho goes back to work in the ring. Hard headbutts from Jericho as he pounds away at the World Heavyweight Champion in the corner with right hands.

Jericho pushes Cena, he counters with a clothesline. Jericho counters with a sleeper hold. Jericho is on Cena's neck, Cena drops him but Jericho is still on Cena's back with the sleeper applied. Cena drops down on the mat in the hold. Out of nowhere Cena gets up and goes for the FU, Jericho counters out with a DDT. Jericho jumps off the ropes onto Cena on the apron. Cena catches him but Jericho ends up hitting a bulldog on Cena from the apron onto the steel ring steps. Jericho put Cena back in the ring and got a two count. Jericho kicks Cena in the head then in the back of the neck. Back to the head again, sending him back down to the mat. Jericho locks a hold on Cena in the ropes. Jericho stands on the back of the neck of the World Champion. Jericho applies another submission hold on Cena on the mat. Jericho misses on a spot in the corner as Cena goes on the attack with shoulder blocks. Cena slams Jericho to the mat and teases the five knuckle shuffle, he connects. Cena goes for the FU but Jericho counters and goes for the Walls of Jericho. Cena counters with a belly-to-belly suplex and gets a two count. Jericho goes off the middle rope and hits a missile dropkick and gets a two count on the Champion. They exchange counters as Jericho ends up hitting the Lion Sault for a two count.

Jericho works over Cena in the corner. Jericho sets Cena up on the top turnbuckle. Jericho goes for the superplex, Cena counters out. Cena goes off with a flying leg drop. He gets a two count. Cena teases the FU. He waits for Jericho to get back to his feet. When it comes, Jericho uses elbows, they don't work but Jericho still counters out and hits the Code Breaker. Two count for Jericho but he is furious at Mike Chioda. After arguing with the referee, Jericho is caught in the FU from Cena. Both men are down, Cena goes for the pin. Two count. Double count out has started in the ring. Cena goes for offense on Jericho but he catches him in a small package roll-up. Cena kicks out and eventually goes for the STFU. Jericho avoids it somehow and ends up hooking in the Walls of Jericho. Cena goes for the ropes, Jericho pulls him back to the middle of the ring. Somehow Jericho reversed the hold and broke it. Cena hooks in the STFU and Jericho taps.

Jeff Hardy def. WWE Champion Edge & Triple H (WWE Championship Match)
Triple H goes after Jeff Hardy but he takes Hunter down. Jeff takes out Edge then goes back to HHH. Jeff has started the quickest as he sets Triple H and Edge up in the corner. He continues to throw them off one another in the corner then coast-to-coast.

Jeff flips Triple H over the ropes to the outside. He attempts a high spot but Edge takes him out in the ring. Edge runs at Jeff, he is tossed to the outside. Jeff leaps over the top rope onto Edge. Triple H gives Jeff Hardy a clothesline. Jeff and Triple H go back and forth, Triplke H sends Jeff into the crowd control barrier. Edge kicks H in the face when he gets on the apron. Triple H gets back in and eats right hands from Edge in the corner. Edge pulls him to the middle of the ring and gives him more right hands. Triple H retaliates with fist shots of his own. Edge whips Triple H off the ropes, gives him a boot, and gets a near fall. Triple H connects with a high knee on Edge. Reverse neck breaker from Triple H onto the WWE Champion. Triple H works with Edge in the corner. Triple H goes for the Pedigree on Edge in the middle of the ring but Hardy in for the save. Hunter takes out Hardy. Pedigree attempt on Edge, Hardy connects with Whisper in the Wind on both of his opponents. Jeff Hardy gets up first and goes for a pin on Edge, Triple H makes the save. The Game is taken out by Jeff. Jeff whipped into the corner by Edge. Jeff is down on the top turnbuckle, Edge gets up and locks in a suplex attempt. Triple H puts him on his shoulders in the electric chair position, Jeff goes off the top rope and connects on Edge. Two count for Jeff, Triple H makes the save.

Triple H goes for a pedigree on Jeff in a counter but Hardy counters and bounces Hunter's head off the top turnbuckle. Double stomp from Jeff onto The Game in the corner. Edge takes out Jeff from behind. Two count for Edge on Jeff. Jeff Hardy and Edge are standing. Edge goes for a spear on Jeff, he gets Triple H instead. Jeff clotheslines the WWE Champion to the outside. It's H and Hunter in the ring, Twist of Fate on Hunter. Hardy hits the Swanton. Cover and Edge pulls Hardy out of the ring. Edge throws Jeff Hardy off the security wall on the outside. Edge bounces Jeff off the ECW announce table. No count out, no disqualification in a triple threat. Jeff counters and slams Edge's head off the Raw announce table. Jeff throws Edge in the security wall.

Jeff Hardy takes off his shirt and tears apart the SmackDown announce table. He smacks Edge's head off the Raw announce table. The Cerebral Assassin takes out Jeff Hardy, bouncing his head off the steel ring steps. Triple H sets Jeff on the Raw announce table. He stands above him teasing a Pedigree attempt. Jeff counters out but Edge ends up spearing Jeff through the SmackDown announce table. Hunter is unscathed as he goes for the WWE Champion. Triple H rolls Edge back into the ring. Pedigree attempt from Triple H but Edge counters with a DDT. Jeff on the outside, Edge and Triple H in the ring. Edge wants Triple H to get to his feet, Triple H hits a spinebuster. The Game hits the Pedigree on Edge, here comes the cover. Vladimir Kozlov comes out and yanks Triple H out of the ring. Matt Hardy comes to get some retribution. Jeff Hardy is on the top rope but Kozlov dumps him to the outside. Matt Hardy works over Kozlov on the outside. Edge is the only man in the ring. Triple H gets in but he eats a spear from the Rated R Superstar. Two count from Edge on The Game. Con-chair-to attempt by Edge but Jeff Hardy connects with a chair shot on the apron on the Champion. Hardy goes to the top, but The Game knocks him off. Triple H kicks Edge in the face and Pedigrees him. Jeff connects the Swanton Bomb out of nowhere, he gets the pinfall for the win.

PHILADELPHIA – When Raw rolled into the City of Brotherly Love for a special three-hour episode, it was one of the biggest shows of the year, featuring not one, but three massive main events, as well as the 2008 Slammy Awards. However, in spite of all that, the most pressing issue on the Superstars' minds was Armageddon. Though much of the night was colored by anticipation of this Sunday's event, the situation boiled over in the last minutes of Raw, with every Superstar involved in Armageddon's two World Title Matches rushing into the ring, creating a scene of complete and utter bedlam.

Chris Jericho won the Slammy Award for Superstar of the Year; World Heavyweight Champion John Cena vs. WWE Champion Edge ended in a no contest
The last Slammy awarded on Raw was perhaps the most prestigious: Superstar of the Year. Demonstrating the weight of this honor, Stephanie McMahon herself emerged to declare the winner. In what came as a great disappointment to the WWE Universe, the name she read was that of the reviled Chris Jericho. Affecting his normal smarmy, elitist attitude, Jericho took the podium and spoke at length of why he deserved the award. Lucky for our fans, however, his diatribe was interrupted by World Heavyweight Champion John Cena. Though The Champ wanted to chase after his slippery Armageddon opponent, he was held back by a referee in order to compete in his Champion vs. Champion Match against WWE Champion Edge.

Cena and Edge are no stranger to one another in the ring, with an extended rivalry in their past, but their main event on Raw was as intense as any of their past matches. Though both champions fought hard, the match ended as a no contest, after a run-in from the cowardly Chris Jericho, who took advantage of the situation to attack Cena, mere days before their World Heavyweight Title Match. With Cena distracted, Triple H stormed the ring to attack Edge, and with the later involvement of Jeff Hardy, all three contenders in the WWE Championship Match at Armageddon battled it out in the ring, as Cena and Jericho's brawl spilled out into the crowd.

Dolph Ziggler def. R-Truth
As seen on WWE.com earlier today, R-Truth won a Slammy Award for Best Musical Performance. The rapping ring warrior's fortunes took a downturn on Raw, however, as he faced off against Dolph Ziggler, who beat the rapping Superstar by disqualification. Following the contest, the victor greeted the audience, saying "Allow me to introduce myself. I'm the winner, Dolph Ziggler."

The Great Khali won the Slammy Award for "DAMN!" Moment of the Year
Who better to give out the award for "DAMN!" Moment of the Year than the man who can bark that word like none other, Ron Simmons? Along with Mickie James, Simmons presented the award to The Great Khali for his Khali Kiss Cam segments on SmackDown. The Punjabi Giant spoke of the fleeting nature of material possessions, which warmed Mickie's heart to the humongous Superstar. As they looked in one another's eyes, the arena was filled with Superstars such as Jillian Hall, "Hacksaw" Jim Duggan, Sgt. Slaughter, Kung Fu Naki and even WWE personality Howard Finkel, creating another "DAMN!" Moment right there on Raw. As The Great Khali and Mickie kissed, Ron Simmons had little choice but to brandish his signature catchphrase.

Randy Orton, Manu & Cody Rhodes def. Triple H & Batista in a Handicap Match
Making good on his challenge from earlier in the night, Orton and the team he calls "The Legacy," including Manu & Cody Rhodes faced off against Triple H & Batista. Though the contest was a 3-on-2 Handicap Match, the outcome was nowhere near certain, as Triple H & Batista are not only among the current roster's most dominant athletes, but are also two of the most powerful Superstars in WWE history. In spite of their wealth of strength and ability, however, they were unable to compete against the odds stacked against them, with Randy Orton hitting Batista with a vicious RKO to pick up the win in his team's first match together.

Shawn Michaels won the Slammy Award for Match of the Year, but the award was taken by JBL
The highly-coveted Slammy for Match of the Year was presented by SmackDown's Eve and the star of the upcoming film Behind Enemy Lines: Colombia, Mr. Kennedy. Paying homage to the "Nature Boy" himself, this award went to Ric Flair's Career Threatening Match against Shawn Michaels at WrestleMania XXIV. HBK came to the podium to give an emotional acceptance speech, but was interrupted by JBL, who had one week prior made an employment offer to Michaels. The self-proclaimed "wrestling god" took the award from Shawn, and declared himself the winner for his Parking Lot Brawl Match against John Cena at The Great American Bash, before leaving the stage and a dejected Michaels standing empty-handed.

World Tag Team Champion CM Punk won the Slammy Award for OMG Moment of the Year; Rey Mysterio def. World Tag Team Champion Kofi Kingston to advance to the finals of the Intercontinental Title Tournament; Rey Mysterio to face CM Punk at Armageddon
To give out the Slammy Award for OMG Moment of the Year, Lilian Garcia announced ECW's Alicia Fox and the WWE personality who can be heard saying "Oh my god!" weekly on WWE.com, Joey Styles. The two revealed the winner to be World Tag Team Champion CM Punk, for cashing in Money in the Bank to beat Edge and win his first World Heavyweight Championship. The Straightedge Superstar was gracious in his acceptance, stating his intention to go the distance and win the Intercontinental Title from William Regal after winning the tournament.

After Punk's acceptance, his partner, World Tag Team Champion Kofi Kingston, made his way to the ring to participate in that same Intercontinental Title Tournament. The Jamaican Superstar didn't have the same success as his partner, however, as Rey Mysterio defeated him in the two's first-ever match-up. The Master of the 619 will now go on to Armageddon this Sunday to compete against CM Punk for the opportunity to face Intercontinental Champion William Regal.

Edge & Vickie Guerrero won the Slammy Award for Couple of the Year; Finlay & Hornswoggle def. Santino Marella & Women's Champion Beth Phoenix; Beth Phoenix won the Slammy Award for Diva of the Year
To announce the winner of Couple of the Year, an unusual pairing made their way to the podium: The radiant Kelly Kelly and the Big Red Monster Kane. Giving the SmackDown General Manager a chance to subject Raw to her screeching, Vickie Guerrero was announced the winner along with her husband, WWE Champion Edge. One pair, however, was particularly put out that they had been looked over for the award, and Glamarella wasn't going to take it sitting down. Santino Marella & Women's Champion Beth Phoenix went on to challenge any "couple" in WWE to face them.

The two got more than they bargained for however, when Finlay & Hornswoggle emerged to accept the challenge. The Belfast Brawler & his diminutive son ran roughshod over Glamarella, further contributing to their discontent at the Slammy loss. But before the couple could leave the ring, ECW General Manager Teddy Long and Melina came out to the podium to announce the winner of Diva of the Year. Though it displeased her to announce it, Melina read Beth Phoenix's name. As The Glamazon attempted to accept her award, she broke out into a fight with her rival Diva that resulted in Santino getting hit in the groin.

Jeff Hardy won the Slammy Award for Extreme Moment of the Year; Chris Jericho def. Jeff Hardy
ECW Champion Matt Hardy made a special appearance on Raw to hand out the Slammy for Extreme Moment of the Year with the lovely Tiffany at his side. In what was a special moment for the two Hardys, Matt opened the envelope to discover that his brother Jeff had won for performing a Swanton Bomb on Randy Orton off the Raw set. Though Jeff was excited, and spoke of his plans to leave Armageddon having defeated WWE Champion Edge and Triple H to become the new champion, his exuberance quickly turned to dejection when he had to face the nefarious Chris Jericho. The first-ever Undisputed Champion proved why he continues to be a devastating force on Raw by pinning the Enigmatic Superstar for the win.

MVC (Most Valuable Charlie) def. MVP
SmackDown's MVP appeared on Raw hoping to break his long-running losing streak. After taunting Philadelphia Philly Jimmy Rollins at ringside, the Ballin' Superstar's opponent was revealed to be someone who looked very familiar. Charlie Haas, who had earlier in the day won the Slammy for Best Impersonation for his role as The GlamaHaas (as seen on WWE.com), came to the ring outfitted as MVP, bodysuit included. Unfortunately for Montel Vontavious Porter, his arrogant posturing got the best of him, leading to a win for the Most Valuable Charlie.

Evan Bourne won the Slammy Award for Best Finishing Maneuver; Randy Orton challenged Batista & Triple H to a Handicap Match
Evan Bourne's phenomenal Shooting Star Press was selected as the Best Finishing Maneuver of 2008, but it wasn't the high-flyer who arrived to accept the award from Candice Michelle and Cryme Tyme. Unfortunately, it was the man who had further injured the recuperating "Air" Bourne, Mike Knox. The Desert Destroyer took the coveted award before leaving the arena.

Following Knox's deplorable actions, another bitter Superstar emerged: Randy Orton. The Legend Killer was incensed that he was left out of the running for Superstar of the Year, and as a way of redeeming himself, challenged Triple H and Orton's Armageddon opponent, Batista, to a Handicap Match against the team of himself, Manu & Cody Rhodes, stating that "The Legacy is born."

The Miz & John Morrison won the Slammy Award for Tag Team of the Year; World Tag Team Champion CM Punk def. John Morrison to advance to the finals of the Intercontinental Title Tournament
Maria and Festus took to the stage at the top of the show to hand out the Slammy for Tag Team of the Year. The Miz & John Morrison were revealed to be the winners and the "Dirt Sheet" duo came out to accept, claiming to be not only the best tag team of 2008, but of the 21st century. Following the award, John Morrison entered the ring to compete against CM Punk in an effort to move ahead in the Intercontinental Title Tournament.

Though Morrison had claimed to be one-half of the finest ring tandem of this century, on Raw he was unable to stand up to the assault of one-half of the World Tag Team Champions. CM Punk defeated the Shaman of Sexy to move one step closer to facing 2008 King of the Ring William Regal for his Intercontinental Title.

Taken from: WWE.com

MANCHESTER, England – Irish eyes were on the prize in the United Kingdom, but Finlay's luck ran out against ECW Champion Matt Hardy on ECW on Sci Fi. Also on Tuesday night, ECW's Shaman of Sexy earned a tag team victory, while Mark Henry proved he's still a dominant force in the Land of the Extreme. Watch all of the action unfold in the ECW Quick Cut and check out WWE.com’s exclusive photos.

ECW Champion Matt Hardy def. Finlay (ECW Title Match)
Matt Hardy warned Finlay that he'd be in for the fight of his life this week on ECW on Sci Fi, and the ECW Champion didn't back down from his promise. In one of the biggest matches of his career, Finlay faced Hardy for the ECW Championship, but the man who refuses to quit remained the Extreme champion. In front of a sold out crowd in Manchester, Hardy proved to the WWE Universe why he's known as a fighting champion. At the end of an epic brawl, Hardy defeated Finlay with a Twist of Fate to retain the ECW Championship.

John Morrison, The Miz & Jack Swagger def. Cryme Tyme & Tommy Dreamer
The Extreme night at the Manchester Evening News Arena kicked off with a Six-man Tag Team Match between "The Dirt Sheet" hosts with "The All-American American" and a trio of New Yorkers. Cryme Tyme's trip to the Land of the Extreme was cut short when their tag partner, Dreamer, was defeated when Morrison hit the ECW Original with a Moonlight Drive for the pin.

Mark Henry def. local competitor
The World's Strongest Man once again proved he is a force to be reckoned with on ECW. Henry quickly and brutally defeated a local competitor from Leeds, England. After the match, ECW announcer Todd Grisham asked Henry who he thought would win the ECW Title Match later that night, but former ECW Champion Henry – still seething over losing No. 1 contendership to Finlay last week – refused to answer.

Taken from: wwe.com

ORLANDO, Fla. – ECW on Sci Fi stood witness as two of its top Superstars fought to prove themselves worthy of a championship opportunity, while another crossed a dangerous line with an ECW Original. Watch all of the action now in the ECW Quick Cut and check out WWE.com's exclusive ringside PHOTOS.

ECW Champion Matt Hardy def. Bam Neely (Non-title Match)
ECW Champion Matt Hardy started the night off by setting the Land of the Extreme on fire with an electrifying victory over the rough and ready Bam Neely. Just when it looked as if the brutal Neely would upset the champion, Matt Hardy hit him with a Twist of Fate from out of nowhere to come out on top.

Finlay def. Mark Henry
At the conclusion of Matt Hardy's match, Finlay and Mark Henry both emerged to proclaim that they should to be the next Superstar to face the ECW Champion. As a result, ECW General Manager Theodore Long made an executive decision that the two Superstars would battle for a chance at the title in the night's main event. After avoiding a splash that threatened both him and his son Hornswoggle, Finlay triumphed over Henry by bashing the World's Strongest Man over the head with the shillelagh. The monumental victory earns the Belfast Brawler a chance at the Hardy's gold next week.

Jack Swagger insults Tommy Dreamer and his family
Following his huge victory over ECW Original Tommy Dreamer last week, "The All-American American" Jack Swagger proceeded to belittle the 19-year hardcore veteran, describing the many ways Dreamer is a "failure" before dropping the old ECW Championship into a trash can. However, when Swagger suggested Dreamer's twin daughters might become "failures" as well, the situation reached a boiling point. Dreamer charged into the ring in an enraged frenzy, smashing Swagger with the trash can before whacking him with the Singapore Cane, sending him from the ring in agony.

Ricky Ortiz def. local athlete
Ricky Ortiz remained undefeated, making short work of a local athlete with the devastating Big O. The ever-building winning streak of this young Superstar stands as a continued monument to the amazing success of Long's New Superstar Initiative

Taken from: wwe.com

After a wild beginning on ECW on Sci Fi with a live edition of "The Dirt Sheet," Matt Hardy, Finlay, Tommy Dreamer & Evan Bourne won an Eight-Man Tag Team Match, with Hardy pinning ECW Champion Mark Henry for the victory – after the World's Strongest Man was given a Shooting Star Press by Bourne, a splash from Dreamer, a body splash from Finlay, and a Twist of Fate from Hardy.

In an Extreme world where five Superstars will vie for the ECW Championship at Unforgiven, things were upside down when The Miz & John Morrison hosted a special episode of their hit WWE.com show, "The Dirt Sheet," on ECW on Sci Fi. Miz is one of the challengers in the ECW Championship Scramble on Sunday, and he was joined by guests Matt Hardy, Chavo Guerrero, Finlay and the World's Strongest Champion, Mark Henry.

Each guest, however, was treated to the insulting words of Miz & Morrison – words that sparked a wild melee when Morrison hit Hardy with a microphone. As Miz, Morrison, Guerrero, Bam Neely, Mark Henry and WWE Hall of Famer Tony Atlas attacked Hardy and Finlay, Evan Bourne and Tommy Dreamer rushed to their aid, clearing the ring of the imminent threat. Who will walk out of Unforgiven with the ECW gold? Can Henry hold on despite the 80 percent chance of losing his title? Or will someone else step up and take the gold for themselves?

Ricky Ortiz continued his undefeated streak on ECW, defeating Ryan Braddock. The towel-waving Ortiz has been impressive during his streak, but how long can he keep the victories piling up?

Victories seem to be eluding newcomer Gavin Spears who, despite his claims that he is the "crown jewel" of ECW General Manager Theodore Long's New Superstar Initiative, has yet to taste success on ECW on Sci Fi. Spears did battle with Super Crazy Tuesday night, once again coming up short in his bid to earn his first win. Will Spears live up to his claims?

Taken from: ecw.com

Leave it up to ECW General Manager Theodore Long to keep the Extreme waters stirring on Tuesday nights. Following in the footsteps of his GM colleagues on Raw and SmackDown, Long announced that the Land of the Extreme would also have a Championship Scramble Match at Unforgiven.

Not only will that five-way contest take place, but a sneak preview in the form of an ECW Battle Royal took place Monday night on Raw. All five ECW Championship Scramble Match competitors shared the ring as the World's Strongest Champion Mark Henry ousted Finlay, Chavo Guerrero, The Miz and Matt Hardy to earn an impressive victory.

Just 24 hours later, these men will step in the same ring again - this time as hosts on John Morrison & The Miz's live "Dirt Sheet" on ECW on Sci Fi. What dirty deeds might be ahead for these Superstars when WWE.com's controversial original series comes to the Land of the Extreme, mere days before Unforgiven?

Week after week, Henry, with help from his associate, WWE Hall of Famer Tony Atlas, has done everything he can to stack the odds in his favor. But, after a whirlwind series of matches qualified the other four Superstars to join him in the innovative pay-per-view bout, how will the World's Strongest Man react to such overwhelming opposition to his throne?

Finlay may have gotten some retribution on Mike Knox for last week's SmackDown assault by brawling his way to qualifying glory. But, have things truly been settled between to the two tough-as-nails Superstars? Or will this latest victory by the man who loves to fight prove to be nothing more than another battle in their very grueling war of hatred?

Find out the answers to these questions and more on ECW on Sci Fi, tonight at 10/9 CT. And, don't miss all three unprecedented Championship Scramble Matches at Unforgiven, live Sunday, only on pay-per-view.

Taken from: ecw.com

The following matches are scheduled for the 2008 WWE Unforgiven pay-per-view (PPV):

• World Tag Team Championship Match: Cody Rhodes and Ted DiBiase vs Cryme Tyme

• Unsanctioned Match: Shawn Michaels vs Chris Jericho

• ECW Championship Scramble Match: Mark Henry vs Matt Hardy vs The Miz vs Finlay vs Chavo Guerrero

• World Heavyweight Championship Scramble Match: CM Punk vs Kane vs JBL vs Batista vs Rey Mysterio

• WWE Championship Scramble Match: Triple H vs Jeff Hardy vs Shelton Benjamin vs MVP vs The Brian Kendrick