The year 2025 has been unusual for WWE. The company kicked off 2023 and 2024 strongly but showed signs of decline, partly due to dropping ratings and less-than-expected Netflix viewership. USA Network’s SmackDown ratings have also dropped sharply. WWE upset many fans by praising Donald Trump, raising ticket prices, and maintaining its ties with Saudi Arabia.
Creative disappointments have been abundant as well. John Cena’s unexpected heel turn was a major surprise, but his run as a villainous WWE Champion was underwhelming. Raw, SmackDown, and NXT have all suffered from lackluster storylines and frequent disqualification finishes. As 2025 ends, WWE faces a critical moment—either overhaul its approach before the new year or risk collapse ahead of its most controversial event ever.
Without John Cena, WWE loses a major draw. Cena’s retirement tour was the only notable highlight this year, but with TV ratings slipping and attendance declining, WWE must now build its brand around its current full-time wrestlers. Cena’s final match, where he was booked by Triple H to submit to Gunther, upset fans but created a powerful storyline as Gunther became a top heel. WWE should capitalize on this momentum by promoting characters like Gunther and Dominik Mysterio to maintain fan interest. The company also needs to refocus on compelling storytelling as ambitious attempts like the WarGames reveal fell flat, and it must become must-see TV again or risk losing its audience.
On the roster front, CM Punk and Cody Rhodes are carrying WWE. Cody, despite being the face of WWE for years, has had a dull reign as WWE Champion on SmackDown, the company’s weakest show. Meanwhile, CM Punk reigns as World Heavyweight Champion on Raw, bringing nostalgia and excitement, but his age limits how long he can be the top star. The future lies with Bron Breaker, who will challenge Punk for the title. How this is booked will be crucial—either choice requires a strong follow-up to keep fans engaged.
Fans remain unhappy with WWE’s controversial decisions, particularly the upcoming Royal Rumble slated to take place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, where WWE will also hold WrestleMania in 2027. This move has sparked backlash, with many fans pledging not to watch, underscoring WWE’s struggle to keep its audience engaged. Unless WWE significantly improves its creative direction, these events could mark the beginning of a decline in fan interest and attendance.
Fan Take: WWE’s struggle in 2025 highlights the urgent need for fresh storytelling and authentic connection with fans. How WWE manages its top stars and controversial moves in the coming months will be pivotal in shaping the company’s future and the broader wrestling landscape.
