In a groundbreaking move, Netflix has acquired the exclusive broadcasting rights for WWE’s flagship program, Raw. This acquisition, a $5 billion deal with TKO Group Holdings, marks Netflix’s entry into live sports programming.
Starting in 2025, Netflix will be the exclusive home of Raw in the U.S., Canada, U.K., and Latin America, among other territories. This shift from linear television is a significant change for Raw, which has been a staple on traditional TV since its inception 31 years ago.
The deal also extends beyond Raw. Netflix will become the home for all WWE shows and specials outside the U.S., including SmackDown and NXT, as well as the company’s Premium Live Events, such as WrestleMania, SummerSlam, and Royal Rumble. WWE’s award-winning documentaries, original series, and forthcoming projects will also be available on Netflix internationally starting in 2025.
This partnership is transformative for both entities. For Netflix, it expands their content strategy, adding live sports entertainment to their diverse portfolio. For WWE, it dramatically expands their reach, bringing their content to Netflix’s vast global audience.
The deal is also a testament to the enduring popularity of WWE’s Raw. With over 1,600 episodes to date, Raw has launched the careers of many iconic wrestlers and consistently ranks as the No. 1 show on the USA Network.
As we anticipate this shift in 2025, it’s clear that the landscape of sports entertainment is evolving. With Netflix stepping into the ring, the future of WWE’s Raw looks brighter than ever.
