Credit: WWE.com
The September 2, 2025 episode of WWE NXT drew a solid crowd of 655,000 viewers on The CW Network, marking a noteworthy increase from the 616,000 viewers recorded for the August 28 episode. This bump in viewership also saw the show’s key demographic rating rise to 0.14 among adults aged 18-49, up from 0.12 the previous week, helping NXT finish eighth across all broadcast and cable programming that evening.
A Loaded WWE NXT Card Ignites Fan Interest
The uptick in ratings largely stemmed from a packed episode that energized the NXT fanbase, headlined by the highly anticipated return of the #DIY duo, Johnny Gargano and Tommaso Ciampa. Fans have long clamored for the reunion of these two, and their appearance rekindled interest, contributing to both TV viewership and increased online engagement.
In addition to the #DIY return, the episode featured several high-energy segments and matches, including heated confrontations and intense competition that kept the audience invested from opening bell to close. Highlights such as the confrontation between Gargano and Ciampa versus Trick Williams and a melee involving Jordynne Grace and Blake Monroe generated significant buzz both on television and across WWE’s digital platforms for example, their segments were among the most-viewed WWE NXT clips on YouTube that week.
#DIY’s Return a Major Factor in Ratings Growth
According to sources close to WWE, the decision to bring back #DIY to television this week was partially strategic, aiming to boost NXT’s momentum amidst competitive programming schedules. “Bringing #DIY back was always part of a long-term plan to renew fan engagement,” a WWE insider revealed. “Johnny and Tommaso running back onto the scene gave viewers exactly what they wanted, and that really showed in the ratings numbers.”
This sentiment aligns with the notable spike in viewership and demographic ratings for the show, as well as increased social media chatter and YouTube views surrounding the tag team’s segments.
How NXT Fared Compared to AEW Dynamite
While WWE NXT experienced a rise in viewers, AEW Dynamite suffered a decline in its following the very next day. AEW’s September 3 episode averaged just 472,000 viewers, down roughly 20% from the 585,000 viewers recorded on August 27. Furthermore, AEW’s 18-49 demo rating dropped to 0.11 from 0.13, marking a record low viewership and demographic score for the program.
This divergence highlights WWE NXT’s current positive trajectory in expanding its audience and appeal. Industry observers have noted NXT’s ability to sustain and grow viewership through a compelling mix of nostalgic returns and fresh storylines.
NXT’s Place in the 2025 Wrestling Landscape
These viewership gains are particularly impressive considering the crowded sports and entertainment environment. On the night of September 2, WWE NXT faced competition from major sports events including the U.S. Open Tennis quarterfinals and MLB games; yet, it managed to hold its own and even climb in ratings, illustrating the brand’s solid positioning within the wrestling and broader entertainment landscape.
It’s worth noting that last year around this time, NXT had comparable, though slightly fluctuating viewership figures around 631,000 to 673,000 viewers but on different network arrangements. The current performance on The CW Network is a sign of consistent interest despite platform changes, underscoring WWE NXT’s resilience and fan loyalty.
Looking Ahead: What This Means for NXT
With sustained momentum and star power returns like #DIY, WWE appears poised to continue nurturing NXT as a fertile ground for both established names and emerging talent. Fans can expect more high-profile confrontations, fast-paced matches, and storyline developments designed to keep them tuning in weekly.
According to a WWE executive close to the creative team, “The solid ratings gain is just the beginning. We’re focused on building compelling narratives that honor NXT’s legacy while pushing the boundaries to attract new viewers.”
This September push may also set the tone for the fall wrestling calendar as WWE ramps up to its major pay-per-view events, utilizing NXT’s platform to cultivate hype and anticipation.