Netflix Officially Launches Global Live WWE Raw Streaming

Netflix's move to exclusively stream WWE's flagship live program globally signifies a critical step in its expansion into live television. This deal leverages WWE's established global fanbase to drive subscriber engagement and potentially convert new users, particularly across international markets where the wrestling content has strong appeal. Competitively, it positions Netflix more directly against platforms with existing live sports offerings, challenging traditional linear broadcasters for major event viewership. Moving forward, observers should monitor Netflix's user acquisition and retention metrics specifically tied to live sports content, as well as any subsequent adjustments to its ad-supported tier strategy.

The exclusive global streaming of WWE's "Monday Night RAW" on Netflix, beginning June 8, 2026, is the operational debut of a landmark 10-year deal between WWE, part of TKO Group Holdings, and Netflix, announced in January 2024 (per About Netflix, January 2024). The agreement, reportedly valued at over $5 billion, marks Netflix's most significant foray into live programming, moving "Raw" from linear television for the first time in its 31-year history (per CNBC, January 2024).

Under the terms, Netflix secured exclusive rights for "Raw" in the U.S., Canada, U.K., and Latin America, with additional territories to follow. Beyond live weekly episodes, Netflix is also set to become the international home for all WWE content outside the U.S., including other weekly shows like "SmackDown" and "NXT," as well as major premium live events such as WrestleMania, SummerSlam, and Royal Rumble, along with documentaries and original series (per Variety, January 2024). Netflix has the option to exit the deal after five years or extend it for another decade.

This strategic pivot by Netflix reflects an effort to diversify content and drive subscriber growth, particularly for its ad-supported tiers. The deal allows Netflix to access WWE's roughly 250 million global subscribers and provides a consistent platform for advertisers, with "Raw" producing three hours of live programming per week year-round (per The Hollywood Reporter, January 2024). TKO executives highlighted Netflix's global footprint and marketing capabilities as key draws for the partnership (per CNBC, January 2024).