Netflix enters the world of live programming on Monday with the highly anticipated debut of WWE’s “Raw” on the streaming platform, marking a major shift for the flagship show. WWE executives have decided to move their three-decade-long show from Comcast’s USA Network to Netflix, with the aim of attracting a broader, global audience.
Angelina Jolie Finalizes Divorce, Highlights Syria Crisis on Instagram
WWE President Nick Khan emphasized the synergy between WWE and Netflix, citing the streaming giant’s massive global reach. Netflix has agreed to pay more than $5 billion for exclusive rights to air “Raw” as well as other major WWE events, such as “Smackdown” and “Wrestlemania,” over the next decade. This partnership also signals Netflix’s increasing investment in live events, which are appealing to advertisers.
The WWE, a brand synonymous with colorful characters like Hulk Hogan and Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, continues to draw in passionate fans, with over 1 billion social media followers worldwide. Netflix’s Chief Content Officer, Bela Bejaria, highlighted her personal connection with the sport, recalling her memories of watching wrestling with her family and stressing that the WWE’s multi-generational appeal made the collaboration a natural fit.
Starting Monday, “Raw” will stream live every Monday on Netflix in the United States, Canada, and Latin America, with other countries like India receiving the show in April. WWE’s expansion into global markets is set to continue, with more live events planned for 2025.
The debut of “Raw” on Netflix will be a high-profile event, featuring appearances from wrestling superstars like John Cena, Roman Reigns, and Cody Rhodes, streamed live from outside Los Angeles. Despite Netflix’s previous technical challenges with live events, including buffering during the Tyson-Paul boxing match, the streaming service is confident in its technological improvements.
WWE’s Chief Content Officer, Paul Levesque, expressed optimism about the live broadcast, joking that even if there are a few glitches, the massive viewer count would still be a success. The move signals a new chapter for both WWE and Netflix, bringing together the excitement of professional wrestling with the global power of streaming.
