Analyzing WWE SmackDown’s Viewership Decline Against Sports Competition
Summary
– WWE SmackDown’s viewership drops to 2.044 million on Fox, a 7.3% decrease from two weeks ago.
– The show records its lowest audience on Fox in 2023, highlighting the impact of competing with major sports events.
– Despite the decrease, SmackDown remains strong in key demographics.
WWE SmackDown’s recent episode on Fox witnessed a notable decrease in viewership, drawing an audience of 2.044 million. This represents a 7.3% drop from its performance two weeks earlier. The decline is significant, marking the lowest audience for SmackDown on Fox in the past year.
The decrease in viewership comes at a time when WWE SmackDown faced stiff competition from the Pac-12 Championship game. This situation underscores the challenges WWE faces in maintaining its audience against major sports events. The fluctuation in viewership is not just a reflection of the competition but also highlights the variability in audience reach between different networks.
Previously, SmackDown aired on FS1, where it attracted 789,000 viewers, scoring a 0.24 rating in the key 18 to 49 demographic. This switch to a different network, albeit temporarily, could have contributed to the fluctuation in viewership figures.
Despite the overall decrease, SmackDown still performed well in key demographics. The show ranked fourth in the 18-49 demographic and third in the 18-34 demographic across network television. While these figures are down from the previous week, they still demonstrate WWE’s strong presence in these crucial age groups.
The situation presents a mixed bag for WWE. On one hand, the drop in viewership highlights the challenges of maintaining audience interest amid competing high-profile sports events. On the other hand, WWE’s ability to hold onto key demographic rankings indicates a solid core audience that remains engaged with the brand.
WWE may need to explore strategies to mitigate the impact of such competition. This could include more targeted marketing efforts or scheduling adjustments to avoid direct clashes with major sports events. Maintaining a consistent presence on a single network could help stabilize viewership numbers.
WWE SmackDown’s ratings dip against the Pac-12 Championship game is a noteworthy event in the world of professional wrestling television. It serves as a reminder of the competitive landscape of TV viewership, especially when up against major sporting events. WWE’s challenge will be to adapt and find ways to keep their audience engaged, regardless of the competition.
