WWE's Double-Down: Prioritizing Loyal Fanbase Over Mainstream Appeal Under TKO Group. Get ready for 3 hours of Raw SmackDown and two-day of major pay-per-views.
In a surprising turn of events, World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE), under the new ownership of TKO Group Holdings, appears to be doubling down on its core fanbase, potentially at the expense of broader mainstream acceptance.
Since the merger finalized in September 2023, there's been a notable shift in WWE's programming. Storylines have become increasingly complex and reliant on insider knowledge, character arcs have become more convoluted, and the company seems to be leaning into the very elements that historically kept wrestling a niche form of entertainment.
This strategy flies in the face of expectations set by the merger. Many anticipated that TKO Group, with its focus on mainstream sports like the UFC, would push WWE toward a broader audience. However, recent changes suggest the opposite. The company appears to be prioritizing its smaller, but highly vocal, fanbase, even if it means alienating potential new viewers.
The reasons behind this decision remain unclear. Some speculate that TKO Group, after assessing the wrestling landscape, realized the strength of WWE's dedicated fanbase and decided to cater to them rather than chase a more elusive mainstream audience. Others suggest that this is a temporary strategy, a way to solidify WWE's core product before attempting a broader expansion.
While some long-time fans are thrilled with the increased focus on their interests, there are concerns about the long-term sustainability of this approach. The wrestling industry has always struggled to break into the mainstream, and this inward focus could further cement its niche status.
WWE's traditional pay-per-view model is already facing challenges in the age of streaming, and television ratings have been on the decline. By catering primarily to its existing fans, the company risks missing out on potential new revenue streams and growth opportunities.
Only time will tell whether WWE's gamble will pay off. The company is betting that its loyal fanbase will continue to support them, even if it means sacrificing potential mainstream success. It's a risky strategy, but one that could prove successful if executed correctly. For now, WWE remains committed to its core audience, a decision that will undoubtedly shape the future of professional wrestling for years to come.
Triple H's booking down to the level of the wrestlers and their lack of character or gimmick. It has a NXT Takeover ceiling....it will only draw a declining minority of diehard fans.
Cody Rhodes and Roman Reigns made comments. More taunting that Kevin Owens should turn heel on Cody. Something is not right in this storyline.
Liv Morgan and Rhea Ripley and a woman's world title rematch and it still has nothing to do with them. Dominik Mysterio and a shark cage tells you everything you need to know.
Sami Zayn, do you think you would ever think he could be cross promoted to do anything like a Drew McIntyre or a CM Punk or Cody Rhodes?
Bronson Reed and Bron Breakker are babyface playing heels.
Wyatt Sicks overcome American Made and no after effects from either of them.
Big Bronson Reed and Brawn Strowman booked into a last monster standing match, Sheamus and Pete Dunne and yet more never ending feuds.
"This Bronson Reed and Braun Strowman battle is genius booking. Been some of the best shit Triple H has given us on WWE Raw all year."
Jey Uso becoming IC Champion and his match with Bron Breakker had the making of a NXT Takeover main event. Joe Tessitore going all Mauro Ranallo. Wade Barrett going all Nigel McGuiness and the crowd getting stretched to a fever pitch to see Jey Uso get the pin. Timing again as the post match got 30 seconds right after he is announced as champion then the hard stop to USAs The Anonymous. End of the night and less than 1.5 million will watch with two Monday Night Football games to go up against. Bron with another short title run just to give Jey the belt at a very odd time.
Here are the recent Nielsen ratings for WWE programming since 9/20, along with the shows that beat them head-to-head:
* WWE Raw (Monday, September 23rd)
* Viewers: 1.339 million
* Key Demographic (18-49) rating: 0.43
* Head-to-head competition: Two NFL games aired during Raw's timeslot, likely impacting its viewership. Specific information on the competing shows and their ratings wasn't readily available in my search results.
* WWE NXT (Tuesday, September 24th)
* Viewers: 620,000
* Key Demographic (18-49) rating: 0.19
* Shows that beat NXT:
* WNBA Playoffs on ESPN (0.23 rating)
* Gutfeld on Fox News (0.22 rating)
* WWE SmackDown (Friday, September 20th)
* Viewers: 1.494 million
* Key Demographic (18-49) rating: Not readily available in my search results.
* Head-to-head competition: Information on specific competing shows and their ratings wasn't available in my search results.
Key Takeaways:
* Raw's ratings were likely impacted by the NFL games airing at the same time.
* NXT, in its final episode on the USA Network, saw a drop in viewership compared to the previous week.
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