WWE SmackDown ratings for 2025’s final broadcast showed a meaningful boost, as the episode drew 1.138 million viewers on the USA Network, up 14.4% compared to the previous week. Despite the surge, this figure marked the third lowest audience for the show since Halloween Night.
18-49 Demographics Propel Nightly Success
SmackDown achieved a 0.27 rating in the key 18-49 demographic, leading all television programming that night. This represented a 28.6% increase week-over-week and ties for the third-highest rating in this demographic since October 24th, further underlining the episode’s competitive edge among younger viewers.
Comparisons to Previous Years Reveal Mixed Results
While there were gains this week, a year-over-year comparison to the same week in 2024 tells a more nuanced story. Overall viewership lagged by 20.8%, and the 18-49 rating saw a 34.2% decline, reflecting an industry-wide shift as Nielsen transitioned its ratings measurement system.
Context Through Recent Trends and Averages
Reviewing the data from the last eleven weeks, the current episode delivered a 1.5% rise in total viewers and a 3.8% boost in the 18-49 demo, relative to the 10-week rolling average. This improvement coincided with a period where WWE SmackDown ratings 2025 have fluctuated but remained a mainstay for wrestling fans.
Industry Insights and What Lies Ahead
Regular analysis from industry experts like Paul Fontaine and organizations such as Nielsen highlights ongoing viewer trends and broadcasting strategies. As WWE continues into its next season, attention remains focused on how SmackDown will adapt to shifting audience behaviors and evolving television landscapes. The recent increase suggests there is still significant engagement among its fan base, ensuring its ongoing relevance on the USA Network.
