Item 5.02. Departure of Directors or Certain Officers; Election of Directors; Appointment of Certain Officers; Compensatory Arrangements of Certain Officers

On December 31, 2008, the Registrant terminated the employment of Robert A. Blatt who served as a Vice President of the Registrant on an at-will basis since the expiration of his Employment Agreement in October 2006. Mr. Blatt continues to serve as Vice-Chairman of the Registrant's Board of Directors and Chairman of the Finance Committee of the Board.

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, hereunto duly authorized.

MTR GAMING GROUP, INC.

By: /s/ David R. Hughes David R. Hughes Chief Financial Officer and Corporate Executive Vice President

Date: January 6, 2009

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