In a groundbreaking shift for professional wrestling, “WWE Raw” is set to debut on Netflix starting January 2025, moving away from traditional cable broadcasting. Paul “Triple H” Levesque, WWE’s Chief Operating Officer and former wrestling star, recently shared insights on “The Pat McAfee Show” about what fans can expect from the transition to streaming.
Unprecedented Freedom from Censorship
Addressing one of the most notable differences, Levesque highlighted the freedom from censorship that comes with streaming on Netflix. Unlike network television, where explicit chants or language are often muted, Levesque assured fans that Netflix would not impose such restrictions.
“Right now, just as an example of us being on Fox, if the crowd chants, ‘Holy s**t’ or something much worse, they just take that audio,” Levesque explained. “We won’t have those issues [on] Netflix.”
Global Live Streaming
One of the pivotal changes accompanying the move is “Raw” airing live across the globe, transcending time zones and regional delays that typically accompany cable broadcasts.
“It’s a game-changing moment,” Levesque emphasized. “I think in many ways, not to disparage other partners because we want to be everywhere, but [streaming is] sort of where the world is heading.”
Industry Impact and Fan Engagement
Levesque also underscored the broader implications for sports and media brands observing WWE’s move, suggesting that the success of “Raw” on Netflix could set a precedent for other major franchises considering streaming options.
“Other major TV mainstays such as the NFL are slowly but surely entering the world of streaming,” Levesque noted. “And Levesque said that sports and media brands will be looking to WWE next year to see how the transition goes.”
Future Prospects for WWE on Netflix
While “SmackDown” and “WWE NXT” maintain separate TV deals for now, Levesque hinted at expanding WWE’s presence on Netflix in the future, potentially bringing more premium live events and exclusive content to the streaming platform.
Stephen’s Insight
The decision to move “WWE Raw” to Netflix represents a pivotal moment in how wrestling enthusiasts will engage with their beloved programming, ushering in a new era of enhanced viewer flexibility and global accessibility. This groundbreaking move by WWE signals a proactive embrace of digital streaming platforms, aligning with evolving viewer preferences and the growing trend towards on-demand entertainment.
By partnering with Netflix, WWE not only expands its reach to a global audience hungry for diverse content but also pioneers a shift in how sports entertainment is consumed. The move promises fans the convenience of streaming their favorite shows anytime, anywhere, on a platform renowned for its user-friendly interface and vast content library. This strategic leap positions WWE at the forefront of digital innovation within the entertainment industry, setting a precedent for other sports and entertainment entities to follow suit.
As WWE’s flagship program finds a new home on Netflix, all eyes will be on the fan response and the ripple effects it may have on the broader entertainment landscape. The potential for increased engagement, global brand visibility, and innovative storytelling avenues underscores WWE’s commitment to staying ahead of the curve while delivering unparalleled entertainment experiences to audiences worldwide.
