Netflix to Stream WWE’s “Raw” Live: A New Era for Wrestling Fans Worldwide
Netflix is set to expand its live programming lineup, starting Monday with the streaming debut of WWE’s “Raw”, the iconic weekly wrestling show that has been a staple of American television for 30 years.
A Bold Move for WWE
The WWE is shifting its flagship show from Comcast’s USA Network to Netflix in a bid to expand its global reach and attract fans of all ages.
“When you look at Netflix and its global reach and the power of its brand, it was time that our brand met up with theirs,” said WWE President Nick Khan.
A $5 Billion Deal
Netflix has reportedly paid over $5 billion for the exclusive 10-year rights to stream “Raw”, “Smackdown”, “WrestleMania”, and other WWE programming. The deal aligns with Netflix’s strategy to incorporate live events, which are highly appealing to advertisers.
A Multi-Generational Fan Base
WWE’s larger-than-life characters, from Hulk Hogan to Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, have captivated audiences for decades. According to Bela Bejaria, Netflix’s Chief Content Officer and a lifelong wrestling fan, WWE boasts a multi-generational fan base and a roster of stars that ensures global appeal.
Today, WWE has over 1 billion followers on social media, highlighting its vast reach and passionate audience.
Read More: WWE wrestler Hulk Hogan passed away.
Global Rollout
- “Raw” will stream live every Monday on Netflix in the United States, Canada, and Latin America, among other territories.
- In India and select countries, the show will debut on Netflix in April 2025.
- WWE plans to expand “Raw” and “Smackdown” into international markets, along with scouting for global superstars.
“We can’t just be an American company, piping out American content, hoping that people will show up and tune in. We have to be boots on the ground,” Khan stated.
A New Era of Live Events for Netflix
“Raw” marks a significant step for Netflix, which has only hosted a few live events so far. The streaming giant is aiming to avoid technical glitches, which affected its record-breaking 65 million concurrent streams for the 2023 boxing match between Mike Tyson and Jake Paul.
Netflix has since improved its technology, as evidenced by the smooth streaming of two NFL games on Christmas Day, which drew over 30 million viewers each.
Star-Studded Debut
The inaugural Netflix stream of “Raw” will feature appearances by wrestling legends such as John Cena, Roman Reigns, and Cody Rhodes. The show will air 52 weeks a year, bringing non-stop action to wrestling fans around the world.
With Netflix’s massive global platform and WWE’s dedicated fanbase, this partnership promises to redefine how professional wrestling reaches its audience. Let the Monday night action begin!
