WWE's ECW

[snabbit888]

Hardcore Holly is a bad ass, plain and simple. A lot of him tonight. That being said, he won't win the title, but you've made him a very credible threat that will help Lashley out considerably.

RED MIST! I love mist as a gimmick. Thorn shouldn't have won the Singapore Cane match with Sandman, but he got his heat back for sure.

More good stuff!

[vertigo]

ECW on Sci Fi
July 10, 2007
New Orleans, LA
Commentators: Joey Styles & Tazz

After the opening credits, CM Punk is shown in the back taping his fists. Ric Flair walks up and startles CM Punk who is obviously a little on edge after the recent attacks he's received. Flair says he doesn't know who is after Punk but that he will keep on eye out. Punk is standoffish and lets Flair know that right now, he can't trust anyone. After all, Flair has been dubbed "The Dirtiest Player in the Game" and attacks like this are reminiscent of some of the things Flair has been capable of in the past. Punk gives Flair a little shoulder check as he walks off.

Joey Styles & Tazz welcome everyone to ECW on Sci Fi and hype tonight's main event match for the ECW World Title as Bobby Lashley defends against the Top Contendor, Hardcore Holly! Also, CM Punk goes one-on-one with Daivari and up next, The Highlanders battle The Major Brothers!

The Highlanders (Robbie McAllister and Rory McAllister) defeated The Major Brothers (Brett Major and Brian Major) when Robbie pinned Brian after a double underhook power bomb in 0:08:51.
Rating: *

The Highlanders got an early start in this one as they jumped The Major Brothers as they entered the ring. The duo worked over Brett Major with brutal offense, punishing the youngster with stiff shots and slams. They also continued their taunting, calling the Majors liars and phonies. Brett eventually escaped a double-team effort from The Highlanders and tagged in his brother Brian who quickly took the fight right to The Highlanders with clotheslines, dropkicks, and a flying cross body for a near fall. As Robbie pulled himself up in the corner, Brian charged but Robbie moved and Brian went shoulder first into the ringpost. This left him easy pickings for a double underhook powerbomb and pinfall!

After The Highlanders celebrated up the aisle, Brett Major got on the microphone and said that it was time he and Brian come clean about who they really are. He said that his name was actually… and Brian swiped the microphone from him. He said that he was in fact, Brian Major and this was his brother, Brett Major! Brothers since birth! No doubt about it! He slammed the microphone and stormed off as Brett looked on confused.

Up next, with the lights in the arena dimmed and glowing a hint of red, Kevin Thorn cut a promo in the ring. He showed clips of what happened last week when he sprayed a red mist in the eyes of The Sandman claiming to have temporarily blinded him. Tommy Dreamer interrupted the promo and he brought The Sandman out with him who wore what looked like a bandage across both of his eyes. Dreamer confirmed that The Sandman was indeed blinded by the mist and he went on to challenge Thorn. Thorn accepted the challenge for next week. Dreamer said he wanted it now and rushed the ring. As he got there, the lights went out and when they came back on, Thorn was standing on the ramp beside The Sandman holding the Singapore Cane. The Sandman was reaching around, feeling for anything, when Thorn laid him out with a Cane shot to the head. Thorn retreated quickly as Dreamer tended to his friend.

CM Punk pinned Daivari with the G.T.S. in 0:10:46.
Rating: ***

CM Punk entered the match extremely cautious. From the time he made his way to the ring he was always looking over his shoulder. Even during the match when he had things going his way he would tend to look into the shadows of the audience or towards the entranceway. In the end, Punk was able to secure the win with the Go To Sleep.

Following the match, Elijah Burke walked towards the ring with a microphone. He said he isn't suprised that someone has been attacking Punk since he's such an unlikeable person but also says he's tired of being falsely accused for the attacks. He says that he's the kind of guy that will attack while you're looking and that's exactly what he did. A brawl broke out in the ring that Matt Striker quickly joined in on. The 3 on 1 was too much for CM Punk until Ric Flair hit the ring to help out. Burke & Daivari threw Striker in front of them and ran off, leaving Striker the victim of another GTS. Flair extended his hand to CM Punk to assure Punk that he has his back, but Punk walked off leaving The Nature Boy looking silly in the ring.

Up next, a nicely choreagraphed dance routine from Layla, Kelly Kelly, and Burke of Extreme Expose that Tazz especially enjoyed.

Bobby Lashley defeated Hardcore Holly by disqualification in 0:13:53.
Rating: *
(Bobby Lashley retained the ECW World Title.)

Nothing scientific here, just flat out brawling. This was not an Extreme Rules match but the referee definitely was a bit lenient. It was hard to keep both men in the ring at times as the fight naturally spilled to the floor. Here, Hardcore Holly had the upper hand. It looked as if Holly could be on his way to a title victory as he nailed the Alabama Slam. Somehow, Lashley kicked out! He showed his fighting spirit as he battled back and knocked Holly loopy with a series of powermoves. After a huge gorilla press, Holly, the veteran he is, rolled out of the ring. As Lashley paced around the ring waiting for Holly to re-enter, Holly searched behind the ring apron for a steel chair. Lashley impatiently reached through the ropes to drag Holly back in but Holly greeted him with a vicious chair shot knocking the ECW Champion out cold. The referee disqualified Holly immediately and signaled for medical personnel. Holly held the steel chair, now dented in the shape of Lashley's skull, high in the air as the show closed.

Overall: * 3/4

Notes:
ECW on Sci Fi will take place in Laredo, Texas! We hope to have an update on the condition of Bobby Lashley and maybe even some comments from Hardcore Holly. Two matches have already been announced as well:

Tommy Dreamer vs. Kevin Thorn

Ric Flair & CM Punk vs. The New Breed (Elijah Burke & Daivari)

[snabbit888]

Punk, don't be so edgy! Flair is SO trustworthy!

The Major Brothers angle is interesting. Clearly these guys will be revealed not as brothers, but how we get there is going to be interesting.

I really hate Kevin Thorn. Not as a character, per se, as much as I just really don't like him as a wrestler. Period. Which is making me wish for Dreamer & Sandman to murder him.

Punk beats Daivari as he should, and the stuff with Flair is going to come back to bite him in the ass.

Seeing a PPV match with Lashley & Holly coming. Holly won't win, but it's fun to watch him beat the holy hell out of Black Lesnar.

[JoshiQ]

Don't know where you are going with the Major Brothers, but it is holding my interest.

Thorn has that supernatural style that makes me immediately like him. Don't know much about him as a real wrestler since I didn't watch much of WWE ECW. So, I will go against Ryan and say I like him. I do, however, not like the ECW originals being used as jobbers, so hopefully Dreamer and Sandman can keep things even with Thorn (like Sandman beating Thorn in the Singapore Cane Match last week).

Smart move by Punk. Not worth forming an alliance with Flair since you just know he is going to turn on you.

Figured there wouldn't be a clean ending, and that's fine. There doesn't always need to be a winner and loser. Holly also lays out Lashley which not many men have done before. Gives him some credibility.

[vertigo]

At this point in time, I can't do much with legitimate teams such as the Majors. They're far more valuable to me as single personalities. Alliances are fine, but strict tag teams have no place in this era of ECW.

The thing about Thorn is that he wrestles like a just below-average developmental guy but he has a character. A good, brooding, evil character that no one else in ECW has. I can get behind that.

I was a bit disappointed Lashley/Holly only had a Rating of *. I think in a different environment they could perform better.

[vertigo]

ECW on Sci Fi
July 17, 2007
Laredo, TX
Commentators: Joey Styles & Tazz

After the opening credits roll, ECW Champion Bobby Lashley makes his way to the ring to a great ovation. He's not dressed to wrestle but rather is out to cut a promo. He talks about what happened last week and a clip is shown of Hardcore Holly laying him out with a steel chair. Lashley then confirms that he was indeed concussed last week and has not been cleared to compete this week. Hardcore Holly's music then hits and he stands at the top of the ramp with a microphone. He says that he always knew Lashley wasn't unstoppable and last week he proved that Lashley can be beaten. Lashley then says that Holly did prove a point but then reminds him that he wasted his Top Contender spot by getting disqualified. This aggravates Holly. Lashley then says he can't just let Holly get away with what he did and therefore he challenges Hardcore Holly to a match for the ECW Championship this Sunday at The Great American Bash… an Extreme Rules Match! Hardcore Holly looks surprised but quickly accepts knowing that Extreme Rules favors him tremendously.

The New Breed (Daivari and Elijah Burke) defeated CM Punk and Ric Flair when E. Burke pinned R. Flair with the Elijah Express in 0:11:55.
Rating: ***

CM Punk was weiry of Flair throughout the match. The attacks in recent weeks have Punk on edge and not trusting anyone. This got Punk into some trouble as The New Breed were able to isolate him and put a beating on him. Punk was finally able to fight back and break free from the New Breed and reluctantly tagged in Flair. The Nature Boy landed a barrage of chops on Daivari eventually taking him off his feet with a chop block. Flair locked in the Figure Four but Burke broke it up. This brought Punk back in and the match broke down. In the end, Punk was in prime position for the Elijah Express, but Flair shoved him out of the ring and ate Burke's finisher instead. Burke quickly covered him and picked up the win. Flair put his neck out for Punk and Punk knows it.

Up next Brett Major came to the ring. He cut a promo about the recent struggles of The Major Brothers and said that he wanted to tell all the fans in Laredo, Texas and everyone at home who he really was. He was interrupted by his brother Brian who power walked to the ring. Brian pulled the microphone away and appeared to angrily say something to Brett. Brett looked disappointed as Brian shouted into the microphone "We are… THE MAJOR BROTHERS!!" and held up his brother's hand in unity. Brian was all smiles but Brett looked frustrated.

Before the next match we are treated to a highlight video of Hardcore Holly throughout the years inflicting insane amounts of punishment on his foes.

Funaki pinned Matt Striker after a rana in 0:03:40.
Rating: * 1/4

Matt Striker did not do The New Breed proud by losing to Funaki tonight. The crowd was solidly behind Funaki as Striker attempted to "take him to school". In the end, Funaki took Striker over with a rana from no where to pick up the win.

Extreme Expose is in the ring showing off their dance moves as Tazz makes numerous innuendos.

In the back interviewer Josh Mathews attempts to get words from CM Punk. He knocks on Punk's dressing room which is open just a crack but gets no answer. Mathews knocks again but again, no response. Mathews then slowly opens the door to find CM Punk laid out and his dressing room in shambles. Mathews drops his microphone and looks around before running to find some assistance for Punk.

Kevin Thorn pinned Tommy Dreamer after hitting him with a foreign object in 0:10:41.
Rating: ** 3/4

Tommy Dreamer entered this match with a score to settle after Kevin Thorn blinded his friend, The Sandman, with a mysterious red mist. During the match, The Sandman stumbled to ringside with a bandage covering both of his eyes. This caught Dreamer by surprise who was distracted long enough for Thorn to get the upper hand. After Dreamer weathered the offensive storm of Thorn, he fought back and looked to be headed towards victory. However, while The Sandman cheered Dreamer on he left his Singapore Cane on the ring apron. The first opportunity Thorn had he grabbed the Cane and landed a low blow on Dreamer with it while the referee wasn't looking. Thorn easily picked up the win after that. The show ended with The Sandman wondering what happened and Thorn showing off that satisfying vampire smile of his.

Overall: **1/4

Notes:
This Sunday, July 22 WWE presents The Great American Bash live on pay-per-view from the HP Pavilion in San Jose, California and ECW is sending a HUGE match!

ECW World Championship, Extreme Rules Match
Bobby Lashley (c) vs. Hardcore Holly

[snabbit888]

Lashley playing into Holly's hand, which means Lashley probably overcomes, making me incredibly sad.

Flair went a long way to proving he was trustworthy tonight. Wonder if it'll be enough to bring Punk again.

I am really liking these Major Brothers segments. We eventually get Hawkins and Ryder out of this, I imagine, but I hope that's a bit off. A lot of mileage here.

That's a minor upset with Funaki beating Striker.

Punk gets attacked again... this guy just can't catch a break.

I think there might be some issues with Sandman and Dreamer forming after this, since it was Sandman's mistake that got Dreamer beat.

[JoshiQ]

The Lashley/Holly feud has been fun so far. Look forward to their match.

With Flair's recent actions, you almost have to trust him. Which is going to make his turn just that more sweet.

The Major Brothers angle holds my interest.

Don't know if I've ever seen Funaki win a match.

Thorn is dominating the ECW vets. I don't mind them being used to put new guys over, and Thorn fits well with them. Don't know how much further you'll be able to go with him after this feud though.

Lashley should be going over Holly at the PPV. Can't imagine it ending any differently.

[vertigo]

WWE Great American Bash
July 22, 2007
San Jose, CA
Commentators for ECW Match: Joey Styles & Tazz

6. [Extreme Rules Match for the ECW World Title]
Bobby Lashley pinned Hardcore Holly after a Gorilla Press in 0:09:45.
Rating: * 1/2
(Bobby Lashley retained the ECW World Title.)

Hardcore Holly came to the ring looking intense and all business as usual. Bobby Lashley came to the ring looking more intense and focused than we've ever seen him. As soon as he rolled into the ring this fight was on! Hardcore Holly got the jump on Lashley but Lashley quickly started firing back with punches that may have had more behind them than any Holly has ever been hit with before. Eventually, Holly decided it was best to roll to the floor but Lashley followed. Soon, Lashley was setting up Hardcore Holly for the Dominator on the ramp but Holly countered with a backdrop. From there Holly did what he does best and that was inflict some serious punishment. As is normally the case with Extreme Rules, everything not nailed down was at Holly's disposal and he hit Lashley with everything from garbage can lids to the ring bell and even a monitor from the ECW announce table. In the end, Holly had leaned a table in the corner of the ring with bad intentions on his mind. Holly charged at Lashley who was standing near the table, but Lashley dipped in his shoulder and in one last desperation show of strength Gorilla Pressed Holly through the table! Lashley made the cover in the rubble and retained the ECW World Championship!

[JoshiQ]

What a match! Wow! Great writeup even if the rating didn't exactly come through in TNM. But what can you do?

Love the way you do just the one match from the PPV. Figured Lashley would go over, but you gave Holly some solid offense. Look forward to who Lashley defends against next. Or maybe you stick with Holly as a challenger.

[vertigo]

ECW on Sci Fi
July 24, 2007
Fresno, CA
Commentators: Joey Styles & Tazz

After the opening credits we see highlights of the brutal Extreme Rules Match at The Great American Bash where Bobby Lashley successfully defended the ECW Championship against Hardcore Holly.

When the video package ends Hardcore Holly makes his way to the ring to a chorus of boos. He proceeds to surprisingly put Lashley over as one of the toughest men he's been in the ring with. He then calls out the ECW Champion. The fans erupt as Bobby Lashley comes out with the ECW title over his shoulder. He gets in the ring and Holly again puts the Champion over. Holly then extends his hand as if to show respect to Lashley. Lashley is clearly hesitant to shake Holly's hand. Lashley snatches the microphone from Holly's hand and looks like he's going to say something but instead he nails Holly in face with it and a fight breaks out! The fans cheer on Lashley as the two spill outside of the ring and into the crowd! They battle through the crowd before bringing the fight back to ringside and then up the entrance ramp! Eventually some wrestlers and officials are able to pull the two apart!

The New Breed (Daivari and Elijah Burke) defeated The Major Brothers (Brett Major and Brian Major) when E. Burke pinned Brett with the Elijah Express in 0:11:35.
Rating: ** 1/4

Early in the match Brian Major appeared to have injured his leg. He laid on the ring apron in his corner while his brother did the best he could on his own. The New Breed eventually took over on Brett and taunted his injured brother. Brian, hurt knee and all, pulled himself up with fire in his eyes. Brett finally gained some separation and looked to tag in Brian but just before he did, Brian grabbed his leg and hopped off the apron saying he was too hurt to get in. Brett turned right around into the Elijah Express and was pinned. Despite taking the fall, Brett was the one who helped his injured brother to the back.

Before the commercial we see a clip of Tommy Dreamer preparing for his match, which is next. The Sandman is with him as well with bandages over both of his eyes still.

Back from commercial, Joey Styles informs us that Hardcore Holly and Bobby Lashley went at it again backstage. We cut to a clip of what went down as the two fight all over the halls, destroying everything in their path. At one point Lashley tackled Holly taking down the entire interview area! Once again, wrestlers and officials were able to pull them apart.

Tommy Dreamer pinned Robbie McAllister after a swinging neckbreaker in 0:07:21.
Rating: * 1/4

Rory McAllister accompanied his brother Robbie to the ring. This served as a helpful distraction as Robbie was able to get some offense in on the Innovator of Violence. In the closing moments of the match The Sandman stumbled to ringside using his Singapore cane as a sort of walking stick. This caught Rory's attention who met The Sandman at ringside. A brief tug-of-war for the Singapore Cane saw Rory jerk the cane from The Sandman with such force that he accidentally hit Robbie, who was sticking his head through the ropes! Robbie staggered backwards into a swinging neckbreaker from Dreamer who picked up the win!

The Sandman slid in the ring to celebrate with Dreamer. Suddenly the lights in the arena turned red and Kevin Thorn appeared on the big screen. He taunted The Sandman's blindness and says the same thing could happen to Dreamer next week when they go one-on-one.

After commercial break, Extreme Expose are dancing in the ring. Just as Tazz is getting into the routine, there is a ruckus on the ramp. It's Lashley and Holly again! These two just can't be seperated! Once again, wrestlers and officials are required to pull them apart. Tazz comments on how disappointed he is that Extreme Expose was ruined tonight.

Ric Flair defeated Matt Striker by disqualification in 0:04:53.
Rating: * 3/4

Matt Striker was accompanied to the ring by his New Breed stablemates, Elijah Burke & Daivari. Before the match began Ric Flair cut a promo on the New Breed. He says he's done his fair share of sneak attacks and blindsides in the past, but nothing like what The New Breed are doing to CM Punk who is still recovering from last week's attack. The New Breed vehemently deny having anything to do with the attacks.

Burke & Daivari stayed at ringside to do guest commentary. Flair was feeling good tonight as he beat the hell out of Striker. At one point, he challenged Burke & Daivari to get in thinking he would have no problems fighting them all at once. Of course Burke & Daivari accepted and jumped in the ring ending this match by disqualification and of course the 3-on-1 was too much for Flair. The crowd erupted as CM Punk's music hit and he rushed the ring! Burke & Daivari scattered leaving only Striker who fell victim to a Go-To-Sleep! The show fades out with Flair & Punk standing unified in the ring.

Overall: * 1/2

[snabbit888]

Tons of good Lashley/Holly stuff tonight. The 3 pull aparts was a nice touch. Clearly a rematch on the horizon.

Man, Brian Major is a dick. I like this way of revealing them as Hawkins & Ryder instead of them just doing it randomly like in real life.

That crafty Sandman. Dreamer/Thorn should be built around trying to blind Dreamer. I hope, instead, Dreamer DDTs Thorn into unemployment.

Looks like Flair has finally gained Punk's trust. Which for Flair, probably means he's going to turn on him.

[JoshiQ]

That wasn't very face-like of Lashley. Bonking Holly on the nose with the mic and all of that.

Interesting twist with the Major Brothers. I didn't know how this angle would end up, but maybe a split in the future?

I like the use of the Expose to further the feud between Lashley and Holly.

Like Ryan said, looks like Flair has the trust of Punk so you know the swerve is coming. Can't wait.

[vertigo]

ECW on Sci Fi
July 31, 2007
Phoenix, AZ
Commentators: Joey Styles & Tazz

After the opening credits, we cut to a locker room where The Major Brothers are having a discussion. Brian is on crutches and explains to his disappointed brother that because of the injury he suffered last week he won't be able to wrestle tonight. He isn't sure when he'll be cleared to wrestle again. But he goes on to say that this is Brett's time to shine! He says he went ahead and signed his brother up for a singles match later on tonight. As Brett begins to ask who is opponent is, Brian gets distracted by something and hobbles off.

Elijah Burke pinned Jesse Gillmet with the Elijah Express in 0:04:13.
Rating: *** 1/4

Burke makes quick work of local talent Jesse Gilmette and looks impressive while doing so. Burke's New Breed allies, Daivari and Matt Striker were at ringside for the match. Striker even did special guest commentary and put over how great The New Breed are.

Tommy Dreamer defeated Kevin Thorn by disqualification in 0:10:22.
Rating: **
[The Sandman interfered against Tommy Dreamer.]

The Sandman accompanied Tommy Dreamer to the ring for this match, his eyes still bandaged. At the sound of the bell Dreamer went at Thorn fast and furious with wild haymakers. The fight spilled to the floor where Dreamer whipped Thorn into the ringside barriers, envoking numerous "ECW! ECW!" chants from the fans! When things finally settled down, Thorn took over with some brutal heat all the while glancing at The Sandman at ringside. The Sandman remained motionless, holding his Singapore throughout the entire match until the very end. Dreamer mounted a comeback and had Thorn set up for the DDT when The Sandman entered the ring and caned Dreamer, causing a disqualification! Tazz & Joey Styles were speechless! The Sandman ripped the bandages from his face exposing all white, bloodshot eyes. It looked like The Sandman was possessed! Thorn stood in front of The Sandman for a moment before The Sandman dropped to the mat and bowed before him! The Sandman looks to be a servant to Kevin Thorn!

Back from a commercial break, Tazz & Joey Styles are still shook up about what transpired between The Sandman, Kevin Thorn, and Tommy Dreamer.

ECW Champion Bobby Lashley's music hits and he makes his way to the ring. He talks about how a lot of people feel he doesn't represent the name ECW like the ECW Champion should. About how he's not EXTREME enough to represent a brand that was built on hardcore wrestling, blood, and violence. He then talks about how beating a man who's monikor is Hardcore, in an Extreme Rules match still wasn't enough to convince everyone. He goes on to say that a beast has been unleashed in him. He reminds everyone that rather than show respect for the veteran Hardcore Holly, he slapped him across the face. Lashley says that if Hardcore Holly wanted to get the Extreme out of Lashley, he succeeded! This is his time, this is his brand, and if it's violence Holly and the fans want, it's violence they will get! He warns Hardcore Holly that when the two cross paths again Holly will feel his wrath!

Up next, The Major Brothers make their way to the ring. Brian is on his crutches and he tries to hype his brother up for the match. When Brett gets in the ring he waits anxiously to find out who Brian signed him up to wrestle...

Hardcore Holly defeated Brett Major by countout in 0:05:28.
Rating: **

Hardcore Holly came to the ring fuming! It was a bad place to be for Brett Major as Hardcore Holly was looking for some ass to kick following Lashley's promo earlier. An ass kicking is exactly what Brett got! After doing some damage in the ring, Holly threw Brett to the floor to continue the onslaught. To finish Brett off, Holly hit his Alabama Slam ON THE FLOOR! Holly took the countout victory but didn't stop there. As he point the boots to Brett, Brian tried to sneak up on Holly with a crutch in hand, but Holly easily snatched it from him and hit Brett with it a couple of times. Brian didn't appear to want to risk further injury so he stayed back while his brother took the beating.

Up next Extreme Expose put on a short but sweet dance routine. Joey Styles had to tell Tazz to wipe the drool from his mouth.

CM Punk and Ric Flair defeated The Highlanders (Robbie McAllister and Rory McAllister) when Punk defeated Rory when Rory passed out in the Anaconda Vice in 0:08:28.
Rating: **

In tonight's main event, CM Punk and Ric Flair tested their allegiance and teamwork against the more seasoned duo of The Highlanders. It was a tough start for Flair as The Highlanders gained a quick advantage over him. The tides turned, however, when Flair nailed a cheap low blow, which the fans fully approved of, and made the hot tag to CM Punk. Punk cleaned house and locked in a submission on Rory. Robbie attempted to make the save but Flair cut him off. Getting no answer from Rory, the referee called for the bell and Punk & Flair pick up the win.

While the winners celebrated, The New Breed appeared at the top of the entrance way. Elijah Burke had a microphone and he said Punk & Flair looked impressive tonight as a team. He began to suggest that next week the two of them take on two members of The New Breed but before he could finish, Matt Striker ripped the microphone from his hands. Striker challenged Punk & Flair to find a partner and face ALL THREE members of The New Breed! Burke & Daivari looked highly frustrated with Striker but it was too late. Punk immediately accepted the challenge to close out the show.

Overall: **

Notes:
Next week, ECW on Sci Fi comes to you from Youngstown, OH and the main event has already been announced!

Six Man Tag Team Match
The New Breed vs. CM Punk, Ric Flair, and a partner of their choosing

[snabbit888]

I know I've said it before, but I really love this Majors angle. Such a better way to get us to Ryder/Hawkins.

Haha. I laughed at the possession angle. It's so silly, but that's the appeal of wrestling sometimes. How Dreamer is going to break the curse should be entertaining. Hopefully it involves Thorn being fired.

Lashley's trying, but I still don't see the fans really embracing him fully as the ECW champion though. We'll see if you can get him there.

A pissed off Hardcore Holly is a scary thing, and Major found that out firsthand. I like how Brian basically gave Holly a weapon to use on his "brother."

Not a bad first tag outing for Punk/Flair, all things considered. Can't imagine who will join their battle though... hrm...

[vertigo]

Thanks! The Majors angle is pretty fun.

Don't forget, we're on Sci Fi. Things like possessions aren't that far fetched.

Your constant insistence for Thorn's release amuses me.

[snabbit888]

And it will continue until January 9, 2009.

[dynamite81]

Its been fun catching up on whats been happening here.
I'm guessing that Punk/Flair will need someone like Lashley for muscle to take on The New Breed.

[vertigo]

ECW on Sci Fi
August 7, 2007
Youngstown, OH
Commentators: Joey Styles & Tazz

After the opening credits the fans in attendance erupt with cheers as Ric Flair & CM Punk make their way to the ring. They play to the crowd a bit before talking about tonight's main event and how, with a partner of their choosing, they will destroy The New Breed. Obviously taking offense to this, The New Breed (Elijah Burke, Daivari, & Matt Striker) make their way to the ring. Burke starts speaking, but Matt Striker quickly takes the microphone from him and starts bad mouthing both Punk & Flair. Eventually, after poking his finger into's Flair's chest one too many times, "The Nature Boy" sucker punched him in the mouth and full-on brawl broke out. As The New Breed started to gain the upper hand, ECW Champion Bobby Lashley sprinted to the ring! He landed a few right hands before The New Breed bailed. Ric Flair, eyes bulging from his head, rips off his expensive looking shirt, picks up the microphone and announces that Bobby Lashley is their partner tonight and they're in for "the ass whoopin' of a lifetime! WOOOOOOO!"

Back from a commercial break, Brett Major is approached by his brother Brian in a hallway somewhere in the arena. Brett immediately looks disappointed as Brian is still on crutches. He asks about their tag team match next and Brian lets him know that the doctor just informed him he can't be cleared to wrestle tonight. He goes on to say that they're original match against their rivals, The Highlanders, will happen next week. However, Brian goes on to say that he signed Brett up for a match that will certainly help his singles career if he were to win! Before Brett could even ask who his opponents was, Brian was already hobbling away.

The Sandman defeated Brett Major by disqualification in 0:07:54.
Rating: 3/4*
[Brian Major interfered against The Sandman.]

Kevin Thorn led his new "follower" The Sandman to the ring. The Sandman looked almost demonic with his face emotionless and his eyes slighly bloodshot and pupils barely visible. To say Brett Major was terrified would be an understatement. He questioned his brother at ringside for signing him up for this match but Brian simply told him not to worry and win the match! Easier said than done as The Sandman, more aggressive than ever, really put a beating on young Brett Major. The fans really started to get behind Brett and this louder than normal ovation he was getting lit a fire under him. He started to mount an explosive comeback when for no reason his brother Brian hopped on the ring apron and hit The Sandman with his crutch immediately resulting in a disqualification!

As Brett angrily questioned his brother for interfering Kevin Thorn slid in the ring and nailed Brett from behind. Brian quickly stepped off the apron as he wanted no part of Thorn. Thorn then laid out Brett for good with The Original Sin. As Brian dragged his brother out of the ring and up the ramp, Thorn cut a promo on Tommy Dreamer, and all of ECW, warning them that soon they all would worship him just like The Sandman. Tommy Dreamer rushed the ring and tackled Thorn. He only managed a few punches before The Sandman, former best friend of his, nailed him with the Singapore Cane! Thorn laughed as The Sandman laid in a few more vicious shots before finally leaving.

In the back we see The New Breed getting together a game plan for tonight's match. They're interrupted by one pissed off looking Hardcore Holly. Holly demands a spot in the main event! Now that Bobby Lashley has agreed to be the partner of Punk & Flair, he lets The New Breed know they have no chance in beating them. Without hesitation Elijah Burke accepts Holly's offer and let's Matt Striker know his services will not be needed. Striker tries to get a word in but the other three have already begun strategizing. Striker storms off angrily.

The Highlanders (Robbie McAllister and Rory McAllister) defeated Nate Nickerson and Ryan O'Reilly when Rory made Nickerson submit to a sleeperhold in 0:02:52.
Rating: **

The Highlanders were originally scheduled to go up against their rivals, The Major Brothers, but Brian Major pulled out of the match and it was rescheduled for next week. Instead, the hungry Highlanders got their hands on some local talent and made quick work of them. Some pretty good momentum headed into next week's match.

Extreme Expose puts on a vivacious dance routine that has Tazz arguing with himself aloud about who his favorite of the trio is.

Before our main event, Joey Styles hypes the return of Vince McMahon this Monday night on RAW! He says there is speculation swirling about an announcement he plans to make. He also wonder if Vince McMahon's return will have any impact on ECW. Hmmm?

The New Breed (Daivari and Elijah Burke) and Hardcore Holly defeated CM Punk, Bobby Lashley and Ric Flair when Daivari pinned Punk with the Scimitar in 0:13:22.
Rating: ***
[Mike Knox interfered against CM Punk and Ric Flair.]

What a wild match this was! The heat between everyone involved is off the charts! The referee had a hell of a job keeping things under control. CM Punk took the brunt of an early onslaught from the villains before making a hot tag to Lashley. Lashley bounced The New Breed all over the ring before knocking Holly off the ring apron with a wild haymaker. Lashley tagged in Flair to finish things off. As Flair locked in the Figure Four on Burke, Holly yanked Lashley down to the floor and the two brawled into the crowd and disappeared somewhere in the arena! Meanwhile, in the ring, Burke was fighting the pain of Flair's finisher. Luckily for him, Daivari was able to make the save. This prompted Punk to reenter and charge Daivari. Daivari ducked and Punk inadvertently nailed the referee knocking him loopy! The fight continued until Flair & Punk were able to clothesline the villains out of the ring. With their backs turned, MIKE KNOX entered the ring and nailed Punk from behind! Mike Knox hasn't been seen in ECW for months! Flair charged but was met with a big boot. Knox then picked up Punk and dropped him on his head with a rolling cutter of some sort! Knox then glanced in the direction of The New Breed before walking away from the ring. Burke slid in and woke the referee up as Daivari nailed Punk with his finisher. The referee slowly counted to three giving the win to The New Breed and Hardcore Holly!

The show ends with Burke & Daivari celebrating while Joey Styles & Tazz question if Mike Knox was the man behind the sneak attacks on CM Punk all along!

Overall: ** 1/4

[snabbit888]

Lashley is a hell of a partner to have, no matter what you might think of them. It will be a question of whether or not he meshes well with Punk & Flair.

Oh, Brian... your antics continue to entertain. Backing out of the tag match last minute because of your "still injured" leg and then getting Brett a match with the possessed Sandman? What a dick move.

Ugh... dammit, possessed Sandman, let Dreamer destroy Thorn so he goes away! Grr... that being said, a potential Dreamer/Sandman match should be great.

Uh oh... dissension in the ranks of the New Breed. They wasted no time in sending Striker away, which may come back to bite them. Though Hardcore Holly is awesome, so I'll allow it.

Ryan O'Reilly sighting. That guy screwed himself so much in real life. Looked like someone WWE would have gotten behind before he quit with his girlfriend and got fat, and then tried to comeback. Highlanders win... and I think the Major Brothers split for good when these two teams finally get together.

Wild brawl in the main event. Mike Knox is back! I always enjoyed Knox - think he got a raw deal in WWE. He may not specifically be involved with the New Breed though. It looks like he is but we'll see how it all unfolds.

[JoshiQ]

Extremely fun show.

Like that you turned Sandman with the possession angle. He'll eventually get back to his beer drinking ways, but you found a way to make this feud interesting.

Agree with Ryan about the Major Brothers. They are stealing the show most nights.

My mind is drawing a blank about McMahon on Raw...had Lashley already defeated McMahon for the ECW Title?

[vertigo]

I really have no idea who Ryan O'Reilly is. I just plugged him and another guy in to be a couple of local job guys. I hate having to use locals but sometimes it's warranted.

Dissension in The New Breed has been going on for awhile now with Striker taking the brunt of the bullying. Yes, it may come back to bite them.

I really liked Knox when he was around. I thought he could have done some really great things if he had the right opening.

McMahon is coming back to RAW for the first time since his "death". He's already been the ECW Champion and he's basically left ECW to die by this time. Since I'm not booking RAW I'll just go ahead and tell you that he comes back to do the illegitimate son angle.

[dynamite81]

What a main event match!
I wonder if Holly's involvement with The New Breed was just a chance to get at Lashey, of if TNB have plans for Holly to use him as a hired gun to do their dirty work?

But Knox showing up is interesting. If TNB are seriously trying to get rid of Striker, then Knox will be a more than enough as a replacement.

[cardsflyinhigh]

It will be interesting to see what Striker's response will be to getting booted from the main event. Is he going to try to prove his worth to them, or cut ties and turn face