WWE Raw Makes History: Netflix Secures $5 Billion Deal for Exclusive Streaming Rights

Netflix has secured exclusive streaming rights for World Wrestling Entertainment 's ( WWE ) flagship global wrestling show WWE Raw , a programme that airs on US televisions every Monday night at 8 pm (Eastern Time). The current agreement between WWE and NBC is set to expire in October, paving the way for Netflix to exclusively stream WWE Raw starting January 2025.

The deal encompasses streaming rights in the US, Latin America, the UK, and Canada, with Netflix expressing the possibility of adding more countries and regions over time. However, the fate of WWE Raw streaming in India remains uncertain, as the broadcast rights in the country are currently held by Sony India.

The expansive deal extends beyond WWE Raw, encompassing all WWE documentaries, shows, and specials outside the US. This includes other weekly shows like SmackDown and NXT, as well as the company's major live events such as WrestleMania , SummerSlam, and Royal Rumble—all of which will now find a home on Netflix.

Netflix's Chief Content Officer , Bela Bajaria , expressed excitement about the collaboration, stating, “We are excited to have WWE Raw, with its huge and passionate multigenerational fan base, on Netflix. 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. Raw is the best of sports entertainment, blending great characters and storytelling with live action 52 weeks a year, and we're thrilled to be in this long-term partnership with WWE.”

The long-term deal, valued at $5 billion according to Reuters, marks a historic moment for WWE Raw as it departs linear television for the first time in its 31-year history. WWE President Nick Khan expressed confidence in Netflix as the ideal long-term home for Raw's dedicated and expanding fan base, highlighting Netflix's impressive track record in storytelling.

Netflix, known for its ventures into live streaming, previously hosted its first live event with the comedy special Chris Rock: Selective Outrage and later the Love Is Blind reunion special in April. With WWE Raw, Netflix is entering the realm of year-long live-streaming formats for the first time, requiring potential technological advancements to ensure a seamless live streaming experience for wrestling fans.

This move reflects Netflix's ongoing interest in the sports genre, as evidenced by previous considerations for a bid on Formula 1 World Championship rights, although the racing series ultimately renewed with ESPN. Netflix has previously collaborated with Formula 1 on the popular documentary series Formula 1: Drive to Survive, showcasing the platform's commitment to engaging sports enthusiasts through diverse content.