WWE Raw viewership plummets as NFL season kicks off, forcing show format changes

The September 9 episode of WWE Raw, which aired from Calgary, Canada, saw a significant drop in viewership. Despite featuring special appearances and important match developments, the show averaged only 1,430,000 viewers. This marks a 13% decrease from the previous week and is the second-lowest viewership for Raw on USA Network in 2024.

The key 18-49 demographic also experienced a decline, with a rating of 0.45, an 8% drop from the previous week. The main reason for these lower numbers is the return of NFL football, which dominated television ratings. The game between the San Francisco 49ers and New York Jets drew many viewers away from Raw. This competition with NFL games is expected to continue affecting Raw’s ratings throughout the rest of the year.

Looking ahead, WWE plans to shorten Raw to a two-hour format starting October 7, which could potentially help stabilize or improve ratings. However, with Raw facing tough competition from NFL games every week, including some weeks with two football games airing simultaneously, maintaining strong viewership numbers may remain challenging for the wrestling program in the coming months.

Check out these posts:

• Former WWE Tag Team Champions Primo and Epico Colon to debut in NWA, while Carlito returns to WWE
• ESPN’s Joe Tessitore joins WWE Raw as new commentator, JBL weighs in on transition challenges
• Mick Foley Addresses Vince McMahon Allegations, Expresses Gratitude for Career Opportunities
• JBL Makes Surprise Return to Wrestling, Jim Ross Hopes for AEW Appearance