WWE Raw ratings continue solid trend, average 4.71 million viewers for July 2 show

World Wrestling Entertainment's (WWE) flagship show, Monday Night Raw, appears to be settling into a nice groove as we move into the summer and the big slate of shows ahead. With the Money in the Bank pay-per-view (PPV), the 1,000th episode of Raw, and SummerSlam all right around the corner, it's rather good timing, too.

This past Monday night's (July 2, 2012) episode of Raw garnered a 3.2 rating for an average of 4.71 million viewers over the full two hours. The first hour averaged 4.59 million viewers while the second averaged 4.84 million.

Those are pretty good numbers for WWE to sustain as they've managed to do in recent weeks. That's not to say the product is particularly strong but considering the rash of injuries and suspensions, not to mention the absence of Brock Lesnar and The Rock, who were given the biggest pushes over the past few months, it's noteworthy to say the least.

And with Raw 1,000 sure to garner a big number, at least over an average of five million viewers, things just keep looking up for WWE and company.

For complete results and the running live blog from this past week's episode of Raw click here. To listen to Sergio and myself gab about the show on the Cageside Live podcast click here. And for complete reactions to all the night's events click here.