Netflix Scores Big: WWE’s Monday Night Raw Makes History with $5 Billion Streaming Deal

0
135
Netflix Scores Big: WWE's Monday Night Raw Makes History with $5 Billion Streaming Deal

In a groundbreaking move for both WWE and Netflix, the two companies have joined forces to bring Monday Night Raw to the streaming giant in 2025.

Netflix’s Chief Content Officer, Bela Bajaria, expressed excitement about the partnership, stating, “We are thrilled to bring WWE Raw, with its vast and dedicated fan base, to Netflix. By combining our reach, recommendations, and fandom with WWE, we aim to provide more joy and value to their audiences and our members.”

This historic deal is estimated to be worth around $5 billion, spanning 10 years with an annual value of $500 million. WWE traditionally aired Monday Night Raw on TV networks like USA, attracting nearly 20 million viewers annually. With the move to Netflix, these numbers are expected to significantly increase.

Netflix’s foray into live sports with this transformative deal means that users in the U.S., Canada, Latin America, the U.K., and other territories will have access to the weekly wrestling program. With over 100 million subscribers in these regions combined, WWE’s premier show is set to reach a vast audience.

Beyond Monday Night Raw, Netflix aims to become the global home for all WWE content. This includes exclusive availability of shows like NXT, Royal Rumble, SmackDown, SummerSlam, and WrestleMania in every Netflix territory worldwide.

While WWE has signed agreements with traditional TV networks in the U.S. to air various programs until October 2024, the Netflix deal signifies a monumental shift from traditional TV to streaming. According to technology expert Andrew Tropeano, this move reflects the ongoing transition and the evolution of streaming services.

The transition will take place in January 2025, with Netflix taking over from the USA network. The intervening months leading up to the transition do not specify where Raw will air. This landmark partnership marks a significant step in the ever-changing landscape of entertainment consumption.