subject: NXT Possibly Shutting Down [print this page] NXT Possibly Shutting Down NXT Possibly Shutting Down
When it was made official that Smackdown would be moving to SyFy, which is also the network where NXT currently airs, WWE also reported that NXT will be brought off that network.
During NXT's debut episode, it scored a 1.3 cable rating. After that though, the ratings quickly started plumeting. The show now averages a cable rating below.8 and when you look at that, it becomes pretty obvious as to why WWE, or SyFy wouldn't be interested in keeping NXT on the air. Back when ECW was on the air, SyFy and WWE were unhappy with ECW's constant average of a 1 cable rating. Considering that, it's kind of interesting to think how the company is reacting to NXT's even lower ratings.
Although it has been made official that NXT will be brought off the air, there are reports that WWE is still scrambling to find a new television deal for their show. Chances are pretty low considering the show's average ratings. But Vince still hasn't lost hope yet.
It's no surprise that NXT has been an even bigger failure than ECW when it comes to attracting viewers, but the show still has hope. Vince needs to put a bit more focus on his developmental brand. All he mainly focuses on is Raw and a bit of Smackdown. Raw gets the most attention though, and that's no surprise, considering it's the comopany's flagship show. However, that's not the problem, the problem lies within WWE putting in a little bit more effort to make NXT feel important. The show had a good build for the first episode, but after that, it has been going down hill. It can be revived if WWE would simply devote a little more time to it, and make it feel important. So the fans actually have reason to watch it.
WWE's NXT is a unique concept, and it can be used in a very effective manner. Hopefully Vince succeeds in trying to find a new home for the show, and keeps it afloat.
