[Discussion] Netflix and WWE Partnership: Exclusive Streaming of Raw Begins 2025

[Uncrowned Guard]

WWE Raw's New Streaming Home

In a landmark deal set to change the landscape of sports entertainment, Netflix has acquired the exclusive rights to stream WWE Raw, beginning in January 2025. This partnership marks the first time in its 31-year history that WWE Raw will transition from linear television, departing its longstanding spot on the USA Network. The agreement positions Netflix as the sole broadcaster of Raw in multiple regions, including the U.S., Canada, the U.K., and Latin America, with plans to extend coverage to additional countries over time.

Expansive Coverage of WWE Content

Netflix's deal with TKO, the entity formed from the merger of WWE and UFC, extends beyond streaming Raw. The platform will also become the international hub for all WWE programming outside the U.S., including weekly shows such as SmackDown and NXT, as well as WWE’s marquee Premium Live Events like WrestleMania, SummerSlam, and Royal Rumble. Moreover, WWE’s documentaries, original series, and upcoming projects will be available on Netflix globally starting 2025. Despite this expansive agreement, Peacock will continue to host WWE premium events in the U.S., while USA Network and The CW will take over the broadcasting of SmackDown and WWE NXT, respectively.

Strategic Partnership and Leadership Changes

Mark Shapiro, President and COO of TKO, hailed the deal as transformative, combining WWE's compelling content with Netflix's global reach. Netflix Chief Content Officer, Bela Bajaria, expressed excitement over adding WWE Raw to their platform, citing the show's massive fan base and the potential to bring more joy and value to their members. WWE President Nick Khan praised Netflix's storytelling capabilities, deeming it an ideal home for Raw's live and loyal fan base. In a related development, Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson, a former wrestling superstar, has joined the board of directors of TKO. Rumors are also circulating about Johnson's potential return to WWE for a match against Roman Reigns, which would be his first WWE match since 2016.

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