The August 26, 2025 episode of WWE NXT, broadcast from the WWE Performance Center in Orlando, Florida on The CW Network, experienced a notable decline in ratings. According to Programming Insider, the show drew 616,000 viewers, which is down by 59,000 compared to the previous week’s 675,000 viewers for the August 19 episode. This marked drop in WWE NXT August 2025 ratings highlights a decrease in audience interest immediately following the Heatwave 2025 event.
Key Demographic Ratings Also Show Decline
In the important 18 to 49-year-old demographic, the August 26 episode posted a 0.12 rating, falling below the previous week’s numbers. This decline in the key demo rating occurred despite the episode airing right after WWE NXT Heatwave 2025, which traditionally boosts viewership. Such shifts in ratings suggest challenges in maintaining audience engagement after major special events within the WWE brand.
Episode Highlights and Match Card Overview
The post-Heatwave episode on August 27 featured several significant matches including a Blindfold Match involving Lexis King and Myles Borne, a six-woman tag team contest, and a number one contender match between Ricky Saints and Josh Briggs. These segments aimed to generate momentum moving forward in WWE NXT storylines but did not prevent the overall dip in viewership numbers.
Context and Implications of the Ratings Drop
The decrease in WWE NXT August 2025 ratings following the Heatwave episode could affect future programming strategies and scheduling decisions for The CW Network’s Tuesday night slot. It also highlights the challenge WWE faces in sustaining audience interest in weeks without major pay-per-view or special event draws. As WWE continues to build new stars such as Josh Briggs, Myles Borne, and Ricky Saints, their ability to engage the core demographic remains crucial.
