WWE SmackDown continued its momentum heading into the Survivor Series season, posting a modest but meaningful increase in both viewership and key demographic ratings for its November 14, 2025 episode. The blue brand’s latest broadcast on the USA Network drew an average of 1.158 million viewers, marking a 1.49% rise from the previous week’s 1.141 million. In the all-important 18-49 demographic, SmackDown scored a 0.27 rating, up 3.85% from the prior week’s 0.26.
These numbers, reported by Programming Insider and confirmed by Wrestlenomics, reflect a steady climb for WWE’s Friday night flagship as it builds toward one of the year’s most anticipated pay-per-views. While not a blockbuster surge, the uptick signals that SmackDown’s current storylines and surprise returns are resonating with fans, especially as the Last Time Is Now tournament and Survivor Series WarGames loom large.
SmackDown’s Steady Growth Amid Survivor Series Build
The November 14 episode of SmackDown was packed with pivotal moments that helped drive engagement both on television and across WWE’s digital platforms. The show’s narrative arc centered around the Last Time Is Now tournament, a high-stakes competition designed to give undercard talent a shot at main-event glory. The night’s featured match saw LA Knight defeat Zack Ryder in a hard-hitting bout that not only advanced Knight’s tournament run but also marked Ryder’s long-awaited return to WWE television.
According to a WWE insider familiar with the company’s creative direction, “Zack Ryder’s return was a calculated move. We knew his fanbase would tune in, and the tournament format gives us a chance to spotlight guys who don’t always get the spotlight. It’s about building momentum for Survivor Series, but also giving fans something fresh.”
The insider added, “We’re seeing a lot of positive feedback from both the locker room and the audience. The tournament is creating real stakes, and that’s translating to higher engagement.”
Digital Engagement and Viral Moments
WWE’s digital ecosystem also saw a boost following the episode. The most-viewed video from SmackDown’s official YouTube channel was Zack Ryder’s return match against LA Knight, which racked up nearly 987,000 views within 24 hours. Other highlights included the full Cody Rhodes vs. Bronson Reed Undisputed WWE Title Match (913,000 views), Charlotte Flair’s refusal to team with Rhea Ripley at WarGames (763,000 views), and a surprise attack led by Sami Zayn on Solo Sikoa and The MFTs (513,000 views).
These viral moments are a testament to WWE’s ability to generate buzz beyond the live broadcast. “We’re not just focused on live ratings anymore,” said a WWE digital strategist. “The way fans consume content has changed. If a moment goes viral, it can bring in new viewers and keep the conversation going all week.”
Cable Rankings and Competition
SmackDown finished as the second most-watched program on cable for the night, trailing only ESPN’s Clemson vs. Louisville college football matchup, which drew 2.564 million viewers and a 0.53 rating in the 18-49 demographic. While WWE couldn’t match the football audience, its consistent performance in the cable rankings underscores its staying power in a crowded entertainment landscape.
The blue brand’s ability to hold its own against live sports is a testament to the strength of its storytelling and the loyalty of its fanbase. “WWE has always been able to compete with live sports because our product is appointment viewing,” said a longtime WWE executive. “When you have moments like Ryder’s return or the WarGames drama, fans don’t want to miss it.”
Survivor Series Season Heats Up
As SmackDown continues its build toward Survivor Series, the stakes are higher than ever. The Last Time Is Now tournament is just one piece of the puzzle, with WarGames and the Undisputed WWE Championship on the line. The November 14 episode also featured key developments in the WarGames storyline, including Charlotte Flair’s refusal to team with Rhea Ripley, a decision that could have major implications for the upcoming match.
“Survivor Series is always a big deal, but this year feels different,” said a source close to Charlotte Flair. “There’s a lot of tension between Charlotte and Rhea, and it’s not just about winning. It’s about pride, legacy, and who gets to lead the team. That kind of drama is what keeps fans invested.”
Ratings Context and Long-Term Trends
While the week-over-week increases are encouraging, it’s important to put SmackDown’s current numbers in context. The show’s 2025 fourth-quarter average stands at 1.088 million viewers, down 25% from the same period in 2024. In the 18-49 demographic, the average rating is 0.25, a 42% drop from 2024’s 0.43. These declines are part of a broader trend affecting cable television, as streaming and on-demand content continue to reshape viewer habits.
However, WWE remains optimistic about its ability to adapt. “We’re seeing growth in our digital platforms and international markets,” said a WWE executive. “The live ratings are important, but they’re not the whole story. We’re focused on building a global brand that connects with fans in new ways.”
Looking Ahead
As SmackDown heads into the final weeks before Survivor Series, the pressure is on to deliver memorable moments and compelling storylines. The Last Time Is Now tournament, the WarGames drama, and the Undisputed WWE Championship are all set to collide in a series of high-stakes matches that could define the blue brand’s future.
For now, the numbers tell a story of steady growth and renewed fan interest. Whether it’s the return of a fan favorite or the rise of a new star, SmackDown is proving that it can still capture the attention of wrestling fans in a rapidly changing media landscape.
“Survivor Series is going to be huge,” said the WWE insider. “We’ve got a lot of surprises in store, and the best is yet to come.”