The July 25, 2025 edition of WWE Friday Night SmackDown delivered a significant boost in viewership as the show paid tribute to the late wrestling icon Hulk Hogan, who passed away at the age of 71 last week. The broadcast drew 1.707 million viewers on the USA Network, marking SmackDown’s highest audience since April 18, 2025, and a notable increase from the previous week’s 1.546 million viewers[1][2][4]. This surge highlights both the enduring impact of Hogan on the wrestling world and WWE’s ability to rally fans with heartfelt programming.

Viewership and Ratings Surge

The July 25 show not only drew its largest crowd in three months but also saw a rise in the key 18–49 demographic rating, climbing to 0.48 compared to 0.45 from the previous episode. This 6.7% improvement in demo rating and over 10% jump in total viewers represent WWE SmackDown’s best performance in audience reach and key demographic engagement since late April 2025[1][2].

According to Programming Insider, the episode topped cable and network ratings for the evening, underscoring the strong viewer interest spurred by the tribute[5]. Wrestling insights outlet Fightful noted that SmackDown continues its momentum build toward SummerSlam, but this episode’s emotional tone and star-studded mourning set it apart[4].

Hulk Hogan Tribute: A Touching Moment

The tribute to Hulk Hogan was the emotional centerpiece of the night, featuring a solemn 10-bell salute that WWE fans embraced worldwide. The segment quickly became the most-viewed from the episode on YouTube, amassing over 2.6 million views shortly after airing. WWE.com and several podcasts covering wrestling highlighted the respectful nature of the tribute, showcasing highlights from Hogan’s legendary career and his immense influence on the sport[1][4].

Sources close to WWE revealed backstage that the tribute was carefully planned to honor Hogan’s legacy while setting a unifying tone for the roster and fans alike. “It was a special moment for everyone involved,” a WWE insider said. “Hulk Hogan was, and will always be, one of the biggest names in wrestling history. We wanted to give fans a chance to remember him the right way.”[1]

Star Power and Storyline Developments

Beyond the tribute, the July 25 SmackDown delivered compelling wrestling content that maintained fan engagement. Top WWE Superstars such as Cody Rhodes, Randy Orton, Alexa Bliss, and emerging talents including Roxanne Perez and Jade Cargill made key appearances, progressing ongoing storylines that will culminate at SummerSlam.

Cody Rhodes, who recently returned to prominence, was a central figure during the broadcast, fueling speculation about his role in upcoming marquee matches[1]. Podcasts and Fightful reports have noted that WWE is leveraging Rhodes’ momentum alongside the emotional energy from the Hogan tribute to maximize viewer interest in SummerSlam[4].

Audience Reaction and Industry Impact

The Nielsen ratings gains and social media buzz indicate that WWE’s tribute to Hogan resonated strongly with wrestling fans across demographics. WrestlingInc and Wrestling Attitude both reported widespread positive reactions online to the tribute segment, citing it as a high point in a season that has seen some ratings fluctuations earlier in the year[1][3].

With SmackDown averaging 1.494 million viewers and a 0.433 demo rating so far in 2025, this episode marked an important upward blip and a potential turning point for the blue brand’s viewership trajectory amid a competitive television landscape[2].

Looking Ahead: SummerSlam and Beyond

This SmackDown episode’s success sets a promising stage for WWE as it heads into SummerSlam, one of the industry’s biggest annual events. The combination of honoring Hulk Hogan’s legacy and advancing key storylines is expected to sustain momentum in the coming weeks.

Industry insiders anticipate that WWE will continue to blend nostalgia with fresh talent pushes, as evidenced by the careful booking on the July 25 show. Sources close to Cody Rhodes suggest his increasing prominence is a deliberate strategy to keep fans engaged both emotionally and competitively[1].

Summary

• WWE SmackDown’s July 25, 2025 episode drew 1.707 million viewers on USA Network, the highest since April 18, 2025[1][2].
• Key demographic rating rose to 0.48, marking the best 18–49 rating since April 25, 2025[1][2].
• The show featured a tribute to Hulk Hogan, including a 10-bell salute that became the most-viewed segment on YouTube with 2.6 million views[1][4].
• Top WWE stars like Cody Rhodes, Randy Orton, and Alexa Bliss appeared, pushing storylines toward SummerSlam[1][4].
• The episode topped cable and network ratings Friday night, indicating strong fan interest in the tribute and wrestling content[5].
• WWE insiders revealed the tribute was planned as a unifying moment to honor Hogan’s legacy[1].
• SmackDown’s positive ratings trajectory may continue heading into SummerSlam with the combined forces of legacy and fresh storytelling[1][4].

According to a WWE insider, “The outpouring of love for Hulk Hogan reminded everyone why wrestling matters — it’s about the history, the heroes, and the fans who keep the spirit alive.” This milestone SmackDown episode confirmed WWE’s ability to blend emotion and entertainment to drive viewership in 2025 and beyond[1].

Fans can expect the momentum to build as SmackDown continues its roll toward SummerSlam, carrying with it the legacy of Hulk Hogan and the promise of thrilling rivalries to come.