WWE SmackDown viewership Surges with AJ Lee‘s Return
WWE SmackDown delivered a notable ratings boost last Friday, drawing 1.585 million viewers while achieving a 0.51 rating within the crucial 18-49 demographic. the impressive numbers represent a ample increase from the previous week’s performance.
This surge in viewership coincides with the highly anticipated return of AJ Lee and the final appearance of John Cena in Chicago, events that clearly resonated with wrestling fans. The episode topped all other cable programming on friday night, demonstrating the continued strength of WWE’s flagship show.
Why This Matters
These ratings are a key indicator of WWE’s ongoing success and it’s ability to draw a large and engaged audience. A strong performance in the 18-49 demographic is particularly valuable to advertisers and network partners, influencing future programming decisions and revenue streams. The return of popular figures like AJ Lee and the farewell to a legend like John cena are proven draws, and these numbers validate the strategic importance of such moments.
Compared to the previous week, which garnered 1.147 million viewers and a 0.28 rating in the same demographic, the increase signifies a considerable jump in audience engagement. This positive trend suggests a renewed interest in SmackDown, possibly fueled by compelling storylines and the return of beloved performers.
tv-ratings/2025/wwe-smackdown-sep-5-on-usa-network-1585000-viewers-0-51-p18-49-rating-tv-ratings-analysis/">According to Wrestlenomics, SmackDown’s September 5th episode on the USA Network achieved 1.585 million viewers and a 0.51 rating in the 18-49 demographic.
Looking ahead, WWE will likely aim to capitalize on this momentum by continuing to deliver compelling content and leveraging the star power of its roster. Maintaining this level of viewership will be crucial for the company’s continued growth and success.