In a groundbreaking move that’s set to reshape the landscape of professional wrestling entertainment, WWE’s flagship show RAW is making the leap from traditional television to streaming. This transition marks a significant milestone in WWE’s history and Netflix’s foray into live sports programming. Let’s dive into the details of this monumental deal and what it means for wrestling fans worldwide.
The Netflix Deal
Start Date and Duration
WWE Raw is slated to debut on Netflix in January 2025. This multi-year agreement is reportedly a 10-year deal, signaling a long-term commitment from both parties.
Financial Details
The deal between WWE and Netflix is valued at approximately $5 billion over the contract’s duration. This translates to roughly $500 million per year, doubling the value of WWE’s current agreement with NBCUniversal.
Global Reach
Initially, the Netflix deal will cover the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Latin America. However, there are plans to expand to additional territories throughout the contract’s lifespan.
Content Included in the Deal
WWE Raw
As the centerpiece of the agreement, Raw will stream live on Netflix every week. This marks the first time in its 31-year history that Raw will leave linear television for a streaming platform.
Additional WWE Programming
While Raw is the headline attraction, the deal also includes international rights to other WWE content outside the United States. This encompasses:
- SmackDown
- NXT
- WWE’s premium live events (including WrestleMania, SummerSlam, and Royal Rumble)
- WWE’s award-winning documentaries
- Original series and forthcoming projects
Airtime and Format
Show Length
There has been speculation about potential changes to Raw’s format once it moves to Netflix. While the show recently announced a temporary shift to a two-hour format on USA Network, it’s currently expected to return to its three-hour runtime on Netflix.
Streaming Flexibility
One of the advantages of moving to a streaming platform is the potential for more flexible runtime. Netflix could potentially allow the show to run slightly under or over three hours as needed, without the strict time constraints of traditional TV broadcasting.
Live Streaming
RAW will continue to be broadcast live, maintaining its status as one of the longest-running weekly episodic television shows in the world.
Impact on WWE and the Wrestling Industry
Viewership Potential
Raw consistently draws significant viewership, with WWE reporting that it attracts 17.5 million unique viewers annually on USA Network. The move to Netflix, with its vast global subscriber base, has the potential to expand this audience significantly.
Revenue Boost
Combined with its other media rights deals, WWE is poised to earn up to $800 million annually for its U.S. rights alone starting in 2025. This influx of revenue could lead to increased production values and (hopefully) talent compensation.
Advertising Opportunities
The move to Netflix opens up new advertising avenues for WWE, particularly during intervals not previously available on traditional TV. This could create additional revenue streams for both WWE and Netflix.
What This Means for Fans
Accessibility
For Netflix subscribers in the covered territories, accessing Raw will become more convenient than ever. No cable subscription or additional pay-per-view purchases will be required to watch WWE’s flagship show and other included content.
Potential for Innovation
The streaming format could allow for more interactive features or supplementary content that enhances the viewing experience.
International Availability
While the initial rollout covers specific regions, the plan to expand to more territories over time means that more international fans may gain easier access to live WWE content.
Challenges and Considerations
Adapting to Streaming
Both WWE and Netflix will need to navigate the transition from traditional TV to streaming for a live weekly show. This includes ensuring stable streaming quality for live events and managing potential technical issues.
Content Strategy
WWE will need to balance its content strategy across different platforms, as SmackDown and NXT will remain on traditional TV networks in the U.S. while moving to Netflix internationally.
Fan Adaptation
Some fans may need to adjust to the new platform, particularly those accustomed to watching Raw on cable television for decades.
