WWE Raw set another eighteen year low in viewership for the November 2 episode. It did 3.24 million viewers, with the three hours being 8 p.m. 3.38 million viewers, 9 p.m. 3.18 million viewers and 10 p.m. 3.19 million viewers. The reason for the drop is lack of fan interest. It didn't have the benefit of coming off a special, and the next special is still a few weeks away. Fans knew it wasn't that important. It is also probable that the absence of John Cena hurt the show, it lacked any special attractions in terms of star power. As for competition from sports, The Carolina Panthers versus Indianapolis Colts game did 12.40 million viewers. That's around the normal level, although it was a tight game, so it is always possible that it did steal some Raw viewers. The bad numbers will be frustrating to Vince McMahon, but so far in this low season, he hasn't made any major panic moves. There's earnings growth and they have attracted new advertisers, so it isn't like Raw is a complete disaster zone right now. Viewership is expected to pick up in January when Royal Rumble / WrestleMania season starts. The whole company is looking forward to just getting through the next two months.
