What changes will happen when WWE RAW moves to Netflix in 2025?
(Courtesy : WWE)
WWE’s deal with Netflix is worth $500m annually
WWE is now part of TKO Group Holdings, Inc. But, Netflix this year announced a groundbreaking long-term partnership that will bring WWE’s flagship weekly program, Raw, to Netflix starting January 2025. This historic shift will see Raw leaving linear television for the first time in its 31-year history.
The new arrangement will take Raw off linear television for the first time in its 31-year history. According to many sources, the arrangement is worth $500 million per year, with Netflix retaining the option to terminate the contract after five years or extend it for an additional ten years if the relationship is successful.
The prior arrangement between WWE and NBCUniversal for Raw to run on the USA Network was worth around $250 million per year. The new broadcast rights agreement, which begins in January 2025, will double that sum every year.
Here’s what you need to know about this transformative deal and the significant changes it will bring to WWE programming.
Raw returns to a 2-hour format
One of the most significant changes under the new agreement is the return of Raw to a two-hour schedule. This change intends to simplify the program by focusing on high-quality, action-packed content that keeps viewers interested from beginning to end. The adjustment is supposed to improve the viewer experience by minimizing filler content while retaining a fast-paced, entertaining show.
No Ads for premium users
WWE Raw will be ad-free, which is a big victory for Netflix premium members. This adjustment will allow fans to fully immerse themselves in WWE’s drama and action without interruptions from commercials.
No more PG guidelines
WWE’s collaboration with Netflix will allow it to depart from PG restrictions. This implies more unedited and edgier programming, similar to WWE’s Attitude Era. Fans should expect more dramatic storytelling, harder-hitting action, and fewer limitations on language and subjects.
With the freedom from PG constraints, WWE is set to deliver more raw and edgy content. This change is aimed at appealing to the older, long-time fans who have been craving a return to the more intense, adult-oriented programming that WWE was known for in the past.
High chance of shifting to another night
There’s a good chance Raw will go to another night. This shift is still being considered, but it may help increase viewership by avoiding competition from other important broadcasts. The new schedule would try to make WWE the must-see event of the week.
SmackDown becoming a 3-hour show
In a reverse move, SmackDown is set to expand to a 3-hour format. This change will allow more time for story development, matches, and featuring a wider array of talent. The extended format aims to elevate SmackDown’s profile and give it a similar weight to Raw in terms of content and viewership.
Starting in January 2025, Netflix will be the official home for Raw in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Latin America, with other regions to follow. Netflix will also host all WWE shows and specials outside of the United States, including SmackDown, NXT, and key events such as WrestleMania and the Royal Rumble. This relationship greatly broadens WWE’s global reach and guarantees that fans worldwide have access to quality WWE content.
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