Seemingly every week, WWE Raw sets a new record low for viewership on Tuesday afternoon when the ratings come out. While viewership is rarely tied to one individual, many will point to the champion as the indicator for viewership success.
Drew McIntyre is the current WWE Champion and while many champions of the past would potentially be frustrated by declining viewership numbers, McIntyre doesn't let the numbers get in his head.
"It doesn’t bring me down," McIntyre told TVInsider. "I’ve been through so much. The ups and downs in my career. Some really low points. I don’t let it get to me or distract me from the goal at home. I know a lot of previous champions have let it get to them. They’ve suffered in their personal life as a result and lashed out on social media. I don’t allow it to get to me from that standpoint. Our WWE Universe, our audience is such a big part of the show. We’re all just giving it all we can. I know we’re learning through this period.
"The audience that has stuck around are getting to learn about the characters on a deeper level. I think because of this when we get back into the arenas, the viewership will grow. I think we will reach new heights to be honest because we’re going to have so many compelling characters. A lot of superstars are maximizing their opportunity in this environment. Right now you can really develop your character on a deeper level through this unique lens. I think when we do get back in the arenas they will attract the attention of fans. I hear what is going on. I see what’s going on social media. Things are going well there, but they can also be better. Once we get back to normal, I think we’ll reach new heights as a company."
On the recent WWE earnings call, Vince McMahon discussed the need for an audience during shows and how he believes that has hurt the ratings. You can find his full comments by clicking here.
McIntyre is set to defend his WWE Title against Randy Orton at SummerSlam.
