In a monumental deal shaking the world of sports and entertainment, Netflix has secured the rights to stream WWE’s flagship program, Raw, starting from the next year. The unprecedented 10-year agreement, valued at an astonishing $5 billion, marks Netflix’s foray into live sports streaming, heralding a new era for both the streaming giant and wrestling enthusiasts worldwide.

A Decade-Long Partnership with Global Reach

Netflix, in collaboration with TKO Group Holdings, has orchestrated a game-changing deal that not only extends over a decade but also allows the OTT giant the option to exit the agreement after five years. Alternatively, Netflix can choose to extend the partnership for another remarkable 10 years, emphasizing the confidence both parties have in the long-term success of this venture.

The global streaming service will not only feature Raw but is set to become the exclusive streaming home for all WWE shows and specials outside the United States. This includes fan-favorites like SmackDown and NXT, as well as marquee events like WrestleMania, SummerSlam, and Royal Rumble, expanding the reach of WWE’s electrifying content to audiences worldwide.

Netflix’s Ambitious Step into WWE

Mark Shapiro, TKO President and Chief Operating Officer, expressed the magnitude of this groundbreaking move, stating, “This is a super game-changer.” Drawing parallels with historical shifts in sports media, Shapiro likened Netflix acquiring Raw to milestones such as ESPN and Turner bringing NFL to cable in 1987 and Rupert Murdoch bringing football to Fox in 1994. The 10-year deal signifies not only a strategic partnership but a chapter starter in the evolving landscape of sports entertainment.

Netflix’s potential as an entertainment platform was further emphasized by Shapiro, who highlighted its incomprehensible marketing and unparalleled positioning on the front page. The move is poised to introduce Raw to a vast global audience, solidifying Netflix as a significant player in the live sports streaming arena.

Reacting to the groundbreaking development, WWE president Nick Khan acknowledged the stiff competition on Mondays but remained optimistic about Raw’s continued success. He hinted at the possibility of exploring different broadcast days while emphasizing Raw’s resilience against formidable competition, showcasing its massive 0.6 rating in the 18 to 49 demo even in the face of heavyweight sporting events.

As Netflix gears up to become the new home for WWE’s Raw, fans can anticipate an era of unprecedented access to their favorite wrestling content, marking a historic moment in the intersection of streaming services and live sports entertainment. The $5 billion deal reflects the magnitude of this partnership, promising a future where Raw’s electrifying moments captivate a global audience through the digital screens of Netflix users worldwide.