WWE SmackDown Ratings: December 26, 2025 Update

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The Final Episode of "WWE SmackDown" for 2025

The final episode of "WWE SmackDown" for 2025, which aired on December 26, marked a significant moment in the show's schedule. This two-hour edition was the last of its kind for the foreseeable future and managed to top the ratings for cable shows according to newly released data. The episode, which was taped in advance to allow wrestlers to spend time with their families during the holidays, saw a notable increase in viewership compared to the previous week.

According to Wrestlenomics, using data from Programming Insider, the December 26 episode of "SmackDown" drew an average of 1,138,000 viewers. It also achieved a rating of 0.27 in the crucial 18-49 demographic. This represented a 14 percent increase from the December 19 episode, which had an average of 995,000 viewers. The show's rating also improved by 29 percent from the previous week's 0.21.

While the episode performed slightly above the trailing four weeks' average of 1,110,000 viewers, it still fell short of the 0.25 rating average. Additionally, "SmackDown's" overall average rating for the quarter was down 42 percent compared to the same period in 2024.

Key Moments from the Episode

The post-Christmas episode featured several exciting developments:

• Carmelo Hayes defeated Ilja Dragunov via the United States Championship Open Challenge, marking a significant victory for the former champion.
• Cody Rhodes, the Undisputed WWE Champion, announced a highly anticipated Three Stages of Hell Match against Drew McIntyre in Berlin, Germany, on January 9. Details about the match's stages will be revealed on the January 2 edition of "SmackDown."
• Joe Hendry, a star from "WWE NXT," faced The Miz in a Miracle on 34th Street Fight. He received unexpected assistance from R-Truth during the match.
• Chelsea Green, the Women’s United States Champion, and Alba Fyre defeated Giulia and Kiana James, further solidifying their status as a formidable team.

Upcoming Events and Fan Reactions

Fans were particularly excited about the announcement of the Three Stages of Hell Match between Cody Rhodes and Drew McIntyre. The match promises to be a high-stakes encounter, with both competitors bringing their unique styles and intense rivalries to the ring. The details of the three stages are expected to generate a lot of buzz leading up to the event in Berlin.

In addition to the main event, the episode highlighted the growing presence of "WWE NXT" talent in the main roster. Joe Hendry's appearance alongside R-Truth added a fresh dynamic to the show, showcasing the crossover between the developmental brand and the flagship programs.

Conclusion

The December 26 episode of "WWE SmackDown" not only provided a strong finish to the year but also set the stage for exciting events in 2025. With new storylines, high-profile matches, and the return of key talents, the show continues to captivate audiences and maintain its position as a major player in the world of professional wrestling.

As fans look forward to the upcoming episodes, the anticipation for the Three Stages of Hell Match and other potential surprises is building. Whether it's the action in the ring or the behind-the-scenes drama, "WWE SmackDown" remains a must-watch for wrestling enthusiasts.