WWE SmackDown continues to deliver strong ratings, with the May 17, 2025 episode on USA Network drawing significant numbers despite stiff competition from the NBA and NHL playoffs.
According to overnight viewership data, SmackDown pulled in over 423,000 viewers in the key 18–49 advertising demographic, outperforming every major broadcast network during Friday night primetime. The blue brand topped ABC (250,000), CBS (237,000), NBC (187,000), FOX (139,000), and The CW (108,000) in the coveted demo.
The show held steady even while going head-to-head with high-profile Game 6 coverage from both the NBA and NHL postseason slates. SmackDown’s episode featured pivotal Money in the Bank qualifying matches as well as a WWE Women’s Championship bout, all of which helped maintain audience interest throughout the two-hour broadcast.
It’s worth noting that these figures are based on preliminary overnight ratings, with final viewership numbers expected to be released by Monday. If trends hold, WWE could be looking at one of its stronger Friday night performances of the year on cable.
Stay tuned to PWMania.com for official ratings updates and all the fallout from Friday’s SmackDown.
