According to initial data, WWE SmackDown delivered a dominant performance in the key advertising 18–49 demographic for its May 2, 2025 episode, topping all major broadcast television networks on Friday night.
Airing live on the USA Network, the blue brand pulled in an impressive 469,000 viewers in the 18–49 demo, a figure that surpassed all five major U.S. broadcast networks during the same timeslot.
Here’s how SmackDown stacked up against its Friday night competition in the demo:
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ABC – 266,000
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CBS – 225,000
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NBC – 220,000
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FOX – 142,000
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The CW – 76,000
With a demo margin of over 200,000 compared to its closest competitor (ABC), SmackDown continues its trend as one of the top-performing shows on Friday nights, especially in the most commercially valuable audience segment.
The May 2nd edition of SmackDown aired live from the Wells Fargo Arena in Des Moines, Iowa, and featured:
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The in-ring return of Aleister Black, who took on The Miz
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A high-profile appearance by Randy Orton, building momentum ahead of his “One Last Time” Undisputed WWE Championship match against John Cena at Backlash 2025
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Additional storyline progression heading into WWE’s upcoming Premium Live Event
This strong showing reaffirms WWE’s ability to draw and retain younger viewers in the face of stiff network competition and reflects continued momentum on the road to Backlash, which takes place Saturday, May 10th.
