WWE Raw's Big Move: Exclusive Streaming on Netflix from 2025
8:37 AM EST, January 24, 2024
In a historic move, WWE's flagship weekly program, Raw, is set to transition from traditional linear television to the streaming giant Netflix beginning in January 2025. This landmark agreement, announced by WWE and Netflix, marks the first time in its 31-year history that Raw will leave linear TV, representing a significant shift in sports entertainment.
Expanding Global Reach
The deal positions Netflix as the exclusive home of Raw in critical markets, including the U.S., Canada, the U.K., and Latin America, with plans to extend its reach to additional countries. Furthermore, this partnership extends beyond Raw, encompassing all WWE shows and specials outside the U.S., including SmackDown, NXT, and Premium Live Events like WrestleMania and SummerSlam. Netflix will also host WWE's documentaries, original series, and upcoming projects internationally from 2025.
Impacting the Media Landscape
Mark Shapiro, TKO President and COO, highlighted the transformative nature of the deal, emphasizing its potential to expand WWE's reach and ensure significant economic benefits dramatically. Netflix Chief Content Officer Bela Bajaria expressed excitement about bringing Raw's diverse and passionate fan base to Netflix's global platform. WWE President Nick Khan lauded Netflix's storytelling prowess, considering it an ideal home for Raw's live and dedicated audience.
A Legacy of Entertainment
Since 1993, Raw has been a cornerstone of sports entertainment, broadcasting over 1,600 episodes. Known for its blend of scripted content and live action, Raw has been instrumental in launching the careers of icons like Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson and John Cena. It has consistently performed well in key demographics and maintained a strong presence on social media, with WWE boasting over a billion followers across platforms.
This transition to Netflix signifies a significant change in how sports entertainment content is consumed and reflects the evolving landscape of media and entertainment, where streaming services are increasingly becoming primary destinations for high-quality content.
