WWE is still super popular.
It’s no secret that WWE is a juggernaut in the world of sports entertainment, but its recent foray into streaming has officially smashed expectations. Monday Night Raw debuted on Netflix with a viewership that doubled its 2024 weekly cable average on the USA Network.
Yeah, you read that right. According to VideoAmp, Raw’s first Netflix episode drew in a staggering 2.6 million households in the U.S. alone.
Breaking Records on Netflix
Worldwide, the numbers soared to 4.9 million views in just two days, with key markets like Canada, the U.K., and Australia contributing to the massive turnout. While it’s not quite on the level of Netflix’s top-tier scripted shows (which average 15.5 million views), it’s a major milestone for a brand testing the waters of digital distribution.
The partnership between WWE and Netflix is reportedly worth a jaw-dropping $5 billion, covering exclusive rights to Raw, SmackDown, NXT, and premium live events. It’s Netflix’s boldest step yet into the realm of live sports and entertainment—a calculated risk that seems to be paying off.
Historical Numbers for Monday Night Raw
WWE’s Monday Night Raw has always been a ratings heavyweight. During the height of the Attitude Era in the late ’90s, the show regularly pulled in 5 to 6 million weekly viewers. Even in 2024, with increased competition from streaming platforms and other sports, Raw still managed to average 1.2 million households per week on cable. The Netflix debut clearly tapped into nostalgia while attracting a fresh, broader audience.
WWE’s Streaming Success
The move to Netflix isn’t just a win for WWE—it’s a win for wrestling fans everywhere. By embracing streaming, WWE is proving that it can stay relevant in a constantly evolving entertainment landscape. With easier access to its content, WWE is poised to bring in even more casual viewers who might’ve missed out on cable or didn’t tune in weekly.
What Now?
This Netflix deal could redefine the future of professional wrestling. We’re not just talking about weekly shows—think crossover events, original series, and in-depth documentaries. Wrestling is back in the mainstream spotlight, and Netflix has given WWE the platform to expand its audience like never before.
So, whether you’re a fan of Roman Reigns’ dominance or you just miss the days of The Rock cutting promos, one thing is clear: WWE is here to stay, and now it’s streaming straight into our homes.
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