Tuesday’s episode of WWE NXT attracted an average of 617,000 viewers on The CW, representing a 16.3 percent drop from last week’s Homecoming special and marking the lowest audience since August 26. This decline in WWE NXT ratings decline signals growing challenges for the show’s broadcast on the new network.
Significant Drop in Key Demographic Ratings
In the vital 18-49 age demographic, NXT registered a 0.12 rating, down 29.4 percent from the previous week and matching the lowest rating recorded by the show in 2025. This placed NXT tied for last place on network television during its timeslot, at a time when most stations had just launched their new fall programming schedules.
Competition from Sports Broadcasts Affects Ratings
NXT’s broadcast went head-to-head with several major sporting events, including a WNBA playoff game on ESPN that pulled in 1.464 million viewers and a 0.27 rating in the same demographic. Additionally, an MLB game airing on TBS drew 454,000 viewers and a 0.15 rating in the 18-49 demo, providing stiff competition for NXT’s audience.
Comparison to Last Year’s USA Network Finale
Compared to the corresponding week in 2024, which marked the last time NXT aired on the USA Network, the overall viewership has decreased slightly by 0.5 percent. However, the 18-49 demographic rating is down sharply by 36.8 percent, showing a more pronounced erosion in the show’s core audience since the network transition.
Recent Viewing Trends Indicate Continuing Decline
Over the past 11 weeks, NXT’s average viewership and 18-49 ratings have also fallen. This week’s episode was down 9.4 percent in total viewers and 20 percent in the key demographic compared to the recent 10-week averages, adding to concerns about the show’s continued ability to retain its fanbase.
