In 2025, WWE finds itself in a complex position, having experienced both remarkable successes and notable challenges over the past year. Memorable matches, such as an intense bout featuring John Cena and another involving Cody Rhodes at SummerSlam, highlighted the year, alongside compelling storylines. However, creative difficulties persist, marking the first time the product has felt lackluster since Triple H assumed control.
WWE today differs vastly from its 2020 version in terms of roster composition, leadership behind the scenes, and overall decision-making. Though 2020 was marked by pandemic-related disruptions—including events without live audiences—the current situation presents even greater challenges for the company.
A major issue WWE faces is the steep rise in ticket prices, making live events less accessible, particularly for families who may find themselves priced out of premium shows like Raw and SmackDown, despite improved accessibility overseas via platforms like Netflix. This emphasis on profit has created a gap between WWE’s financial success and fan satisfaction.
The WWE Network, once a hub for exclusive documentaries, interviews, and diverse content beyond in-ring action, has been discontinued. The company now mainly concentrates on the wrestling itself, losing the additional fan engagement that the rich variety of earlier programming provided.
The transformation of NXT illustrates a significant shift from established veterans to nurturing young, often new-to-wrestling talent, including athletes from other sports. While this creates a more grounded and realistic atmosphere, it has also led to a decline in star power and event popularity.
Entrance music, a crucial part of the wrestling experience, has suffered a noticeable decline. Many original themes are no longer well-recognized, impacting audience enthusiasm, and even wrestlers have voiced their desire for changes, highlighting this as an area in dire need of improvement.
Premium live events now showcase fewer matches, often limiting the in-ring action to four or five bouts. This reduction not only prolongs show time with ads and recaps but also restricts opportunities for wrestlers to shine and develop as stars on wrestling’s biggest stages.
Creativity, particularly outside-the-box ideas, is lacking compared to the innovative content born out of 2020’s unique circumstances. Cinematic matches like the Firefly Fun House brought fresh energy and imagination. Currently, WWE seems reluctant to embrace bold new concepts, which hinders its creative potential.
Fan Take: This snapshot of WWE in 2025 reveals a company struggling to balance commercial success with fan engagement and creative innovation. For WWE enthusiasts, these developments could signal a critical crossroads—embracing change and fresh ideas is essential for the sport’s future growth and sustained excitement.
