BIRMINGHAM, Ala. -- "Third time is a charm."  The phrase was spoken by both ECW Champion CM Punk and his bitter challenger Chavo Guerrero in reference to their latest scheduled clash -- their third in as many weeks. Yet when the evening was over, Chavo was the man whose words proved true.

In back-to-back weeks, the Straightedge Superstar had fended off Chavo, denying an ECW Title Match opportunity for the former Cruiserweight Champion. Chavo was still a leech on Punk's body, however, as he pushed for another bout between the two.

Before his scheduled contest, CM Punk served as the special guest on the first ECW edition of "The Cutting Edge," which kicked off the evening. The host and World Heavyweight Champion began his show by comparing CM Punk to a younger version of himself. The Straightedge Superstar then joined Edge in the ring and responded by saying he knows he would defeat the Ultimate Opportunist if Edge ever were to challenge him.

However, as soon as Punk finished announcing he could beat anyone -- including Edge -- Chavo Guerrero rushed to the squared circle to firm up a deal for a third contest with an ECW Championship Match at stake. As soon as the accord was straightened out, Chavo shoved his opponent, leading to an all-out beatdown on the Straightedge Superstar.

Suffering from a taste of his own medicine, CM Punk found himself the victim of a count-out when the final bell sounded. Guerrero wasn't able to achieve the win without assistance, however, as Edge surprised Punk at ringside with a blow using the gold. The strike stunned the ECW Champion long enough for Chavo to pick up the victory and become No. 1 contender.

Can Chavo make it two wins in a row when he faces CM Punk next week? With Edge in his corner, will Chavo have more tricks up his sleeve to ensure a regime change? Find out on ECW on Sci Fi, Tuesday at 10/9 CT.