Netflix will be the new distribution platform for WWE Raw beginning in January 2025, as announced by the two companies in a deal that, according to business media, is worth $5 billion.
This programming shift for Raw, the professional wrestling show that airs every Monday, marks the first time in more than three decades that the WWE's brand leaves linear television, as stated by TKO Group Holdings, the company that owns WWE.
Streaming of Monday Night Raw will begin in January 2025, with broadcasts launching in the U.S., Canada, the U.K., and Latin America, according to Netflix.
Starting January 2025, Netflix will also offer other WWE shows and specials, including SmackDown and NXT, as well as the company's Premium Live Events such as WrestleMania, SummerSlam, and Royal Rumble. Additionally, documentaries, original series, and various other projects from WWE will be available on the streaming platform.
"This deal is transformative," said Mark Shapiro, TKO President and COO. "It marries the can't-miss WWE product with Netflix's extraordinary global reach and locks in significant and predictable economics for many years. Our partnership fundamentally alters and strengthens the media landscape, dramatically expands the reach of WWE, and brings weekly live appointment viewing to Netflix."
WWE Raw is coming to Netflix!
— WWE (@WWE) January 23, 2024
Starting in January 2025, @Netflix will exclusively stream #WWERaw (in the US, Canada, UK, & Latin America) every single week, all year long! https://t.co/SOSACjfp7w pic.twitter.com/lTdSXMep9K
"By combining our reach, recommendations, and fandom with WWE, we'll be able to deliver more joy and value for their audiences and our members,"said Netflix Chief Content Officer, Bela Bajaria. "Raw is the best of sports entertainment, blending great characters and storytelling with live action 52 weeks a year."
Raw has maintained a consistent presence on U.S., Canadian, and Latin American television on Mondays, competing for viewership against major shows like the NFL's Monday Nights.
Since its debut in 1993, Raw has aired more than 1,600 episodes, with shows every Monday throughout the year. Some of WWE's most iconic wrestlers have been the real stars of Raw, including Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson, "Stone Cold" Steve Austin, Triple H, John Cena, Bianca Belair, Charlotte Flair, and beloved Mexican-American star Rey Mysterio.
This partnership is one that will break new ground, and take @WWE to new heights. Thrilled to bring #WWERaw to @Netflix, coming January 2025.
— Triple H (@TripleH) January 23, 2024
Now we change the game!!!! https://t.co/ridOlqq0Gc
According to CNBC and The Wall Street Journal, Netflix will pay $5 billion for Raw for multiyear U.S. and international rights.
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