WWE SmackDown Post-WrestleMania Ratings: Key Insights

One Big Thing

The first episode of WWE SmackDown following WrestleMania 40, despite experiencing slight dips in viewership and demographics, secured its position as the #1 show on broadcast TV in the key 18-49 demographic.

Quick Hits

• 2.499 million total viewers watched the post-Mania SmackDown episode.
• The key demographic (18-49) attracted 0.76 million viewers.
• Viewership saw a 4% decrease from the previous week’s 2.603 million viewers.
• The 18-49 demographic saw a nominal 1% decrease from 0.77 million.
• Cody Rhodes, the new Undisputed WWE Universal Champion, was a central figure in the show.
• Tama Tonga’s WWE debut and involvement with Bloodline was a highlight.

Why It Matters

This episode marks WWE’s sustained audience interest post-WrestleMania, an event known to boost viewership. The minimal drop in viewership and demographics indicates strong ongoing engagement with WWE content, especially significant as it heads into a new era following WrestleMania 40. Additionally, the debut of Tama Tonga from New Japan introduces fresh narratives that could influence future WWE storylines and character dynamics.

Looking Ahead

With Cody Rhodes setting the stage for his next championship defense and the surprising WWE debut of Tama Tonga shaking up the Bloodline, fans are keenly watching how these storylines will evolve. WWE’s ability to maintain viewership momentum in the coming weeks could be crucial for the brand’s positioning as it navigates its post-WrestleMania season.

What storyline are you most excited about following this episode of SmackDown? Share your thoughts in the comments below.