Starting Monday, January 6, 2025, the move marks a major shift for WWE Raw, which previously aired on the USA Network, as Netflix takes over the global streaming rights. Here’s everything you need to know about this groundbreaking partnership.

When and Where to Watch

The premiere episode of WWE Raw will air live on Netflix at 8:00 PM EST on Monday, January 6, 2025. For those unable to catch the live broadcast, episodes will be available for streaming immediately after the live event ends. The first episode will stream directly from the Intuit Dome in Los Angeles.

Star-Studded Premiere

Netflix is kicking off WWE Raw with a bang, featuring appearances by some of the biggest names in entertainment and wrestling:

• John Cena: The wrestling legend and actor, who has announced his retirement from professional wrestling, will make a special appearance.
• Travis Scott: The rapper, who has written the new WWE Raw theme song, is set to electrify fans with his live performance.
• Logan Paul: Social media star turned wrestler will take to the ring alongside other WWE icons like Roman Reigns, Cody Rhodes, and Seth Rollins.

Matches to Watch

The premiere promises an action-packed lineup of matches:

• Liv Morgan defends her Women’s World Championship title against Rhea Ripley.
• Roman Reigns faces Solo Sikoa in a highly anticipated showdown.
• Drew McIntyre takes on Jey Uso.
• CM Punk battles Seth “Freakin” Rollins.

The Netflix-WWE Deal

Netflix secured the streaming rights for WWE Raw through a $5 billion deal spanning 10 years, according to SEC filings. While WWE Raw will be broadcast exclusively on Netflix in the U.S., other major WWE programs like SmackDown will continue airing on USA Network but will stream internationally on Netflix. This deal also includes specials such as WrestleMania, SummerSlam, and Royal Rumble for global viewers.

Netflix’s Move Into Sports

Netflix’s partnership with WWE follows its recent foray into live sports streaming, which includes broadcasting NFL games and high-profile fights like the Mike Tyson vs. Jake Paul showdown. While Netflix’s early ventures into live sports have faced technical challenges, including glitches during the Tyson-Paul fight, its NFL broadcasts in late 2024 were largely successful, drawing an average of 30 million viewers for two games and a halftime show by Beyoncé.

WWE’s Digital Expansion

This Netflix collaboration is part of WWE’s broader strategy to expand its digital footprint. In 2024, WWE partnered with Elon Musk’s social media platform, X, to stream five-minute wrestling matches, leveraging its massive audience of 14 million followers. By joining forces with Netflix, WWE aims to tap into the platform’s global subscriber base to reach new audiences.

Controversies Surrounding WWE

Despite this landmark deal, WWE’s executive leadership remains embroiled in controversy. Founder Vince McMahon resigned as CEO in 2024 following allegations of sex trafficking, abuse, and harassment. The U.S. Department of Justice is investigating these claims, which McMahon has categorically denied. WWE’s parent company, TKO Holdings, is also facing lawsuits accusing it of enabling past misconduct.

Netflix’s move into sports broadcasting with WWE Raw could reshape how wrestling is consumed globally. By bringing a traditionally cable-exclusive program to the world’s largest streaming platform, this partnership could redefine how live sports are monetized and delivered to audiences. WWE fans, for their part, will benefit from easier access to live matches and exclusive content.

The premiere episode of WWE Raw on Netflix sets the stage for an exciting new era in live sports entertainment. With a star-studded debut, thrilling matches, and a global platform, this partnership is already generating buzz as a game-changer for both WWE and Netflix. Whether you’re a die-hard wrestling fan or a curious Netflix subscriber, Monday night promises to deliver something extraordinary.