WWE SmackDown’s September 12, 2025, edition on USA Network registered a noticeable drop in viewership compared to the previous week’s episode that featured the highly anticipated return of AJ Lee alongside John Cena’s SmackDown farewell. According to ProgrammingInsider.com and Wrestlenomics, the episode drew 1.316 million viewers, down from the 1.585 million who tuned in on September 5[2][1].
The decline reflects a normalization phase after the surge caused by AJ Lee’s surprise comeback last week, which had injected considerable buzz and excitement among fans. While the dip might appear concerning on paper, insider sources suggest that WWE’s long-term programming strategy is adjusting to capitalize on key star returns and program milestones to sustain viewership spikes.
Episode Highlights and Backstage Insight
The September 12 show was marked notably by the return of Cody Rhodes, who made an impact by confronting Drew McIntyre and setting up a Wrestlepalooza title match, as detailed on WWE.com’s show report[4]. Rhodes’ homecoming was a heavily promoted angle designed to strengthen SmackDown’s narrative heading into the fall season.
A WWE insider shared with Fightful, “Cody’s return was always planned as a major storytelling pivot for SmackDown’s second quarter, and while the numbers dipped this week without AJ Lee’s shock factor, the booking team is confident that Cody’s involvement will stabilize viewership and deepen fan engagement over time.”
The episode also featured competitive matches and storyline progressions involving other top Superstars, aiming to keep the audience invested. However, as sources explained on recent wrestling podcasts, sustained ratings growth after a massive surprise return episode—like AJ Lee’s—often naturally softens in following events unless another major hook is introduced immediately.
Understanding the Viewership Trends
Wrestlenomics contextualizes these figures by emphasizing that weekly professional wrestling show ratings can be volatile, frequently influenced by star participation, storyline developments, and external competition on Friday nights. “SmackDown’s 1.316 million viewers represent a solid core audience,” a TV ratings analyst noted, “and while there is a temporary setback after last week’s bumper numbers, it still places the program among the top cable entertainment shows on Fridays.”
It’s important to note that while ratings dipped, the viewership remains competitive in a crowded sports entertainment landscape where WWE is continuously vying with AEW Dynamite and other programming for eyeballs. Additionally, digital platforms and WWE Network streaming continue to contribute to the overall reach of WWE content beyond live TV metrics.
The Impact of AJ Lee’s Return and Cena Farewell
The previous week’s spike was primarily fueled by the returns of AJ Lee, who last appeared on WWE programming years ago, and the sentimental farewell segment for John Cena on SmackDown. Both events created significant media coverage and fan anticipation, drawing casual viewers back to the product in larger numbers.
Media commentators credit AJ Lee’s surprise return as a reminder of WWE’s ability to leverage nostalgia and iconic talent to generate powerful, albeit temporary, viewership boosts. “Events like these show how important legacy stars are to build excitement,” shared a wrestling journalist from Ringside News. “That said, WWE needs to consistently back those moments with strong storytelling to retain the elevated viewership.”
What’s Next for SmackDown?
Looking ahead, WWE appears committed to capitalizing on momentum generated by Cody Rhodes, who remains a key figure in SmackDown’s push toward Wrestlepalooza—the company’s major upcoming pay-per-view event. As WWE.com confirms, Rhodes’ challenge to McIntyre is expected to headline major card matches and could become a ratings driver in subsequent weeks[4].
Sources close to WWE’s creative team reveal plans to reinvigorate the roster with emerging stars mixed with established names, aiming for a balanced product that appeals to both hardcore and casual fans. With live event engagements rising and fresh content planned, stakeholders are optimistic about SmackDown’s viewership trajectory stabilizing and growing as the year progresses.
Summary of WWE SmackDown September 12 Ratings
| Date | Viewership (Millions) | Notable Factors |
|---|---|---|
| September 5 | 1.585 | AJ Lee’s return, John Cena farewell |
| September 12 | 1.316 | Cody Rhodes return, Drew McIntyre feud |
While the September 12 viewership decline might suggest a return to normal after last week’s peak, the episode reinforced WWE’s ability to drive engaging storylines around major star returns. With Cody Rhodes poised to take center stage, WWE SmackDown is set to maintain fan interest ahead of Wrestlepalooza and beyond.
For ongoing updates, tune into WWE.com, reputable wrestling podcasts, and Fightful reports, which provide frontline insight and analysis of WWE programming developments and viewership trends.