WWE Makes a Global Splash with Netflix Debut and Expands to Saudi Arabia

WWE is setting the stage for a new era with the debut of Monday Night Raw on Netflix, a platform boasting over 282 million subscribers worldwide. The highly anticipated premiere, airing tonight at 8 PM ET, marks the show’s transition from linear television on USA Network to a global streaming audience under a historic 10-year, $5 billion deal.

We can’t respond to you all, but we love you. We appreciate you. And we’ll see you Fridays at 8PM for SmackDown! ❤️💙 pic.twitter.com/zEAX1w13ZK

— USA Network (@USANetwork) December 31, 2024

A New Global Platform

Brian Fadem, WWE’s VP and line producer, emphasized the significance of this move. “The global side is huge. We’re exposed to a much bigger market than we would typically reach as a domestic product,” he shared. WWE is pulling out all the stops to deliver a premium experience.

“We want this show to be a spectacle worthy of a platform like Netflix,” Fadem said. “The energy around this feels like WrestleMania week—it’s that big of a deal.”

The premiere episode, filmed at the Intuit Dome in Los Angeles, will run for a flexible three hours, leveraging Netflix’s ad-free format. While U.S. viewers will see limited commercials, international audiences will enjoy uninterrupted content, including exclusive behind-the-scenes footage and match continuations during breaks.

“There’s only one chance to make a great first impression,” Fadem noted, highlighting the opportunity to attract new viewers and re-engage longtime fans.

"You always wanna put your best foot forward and we're a global brand..

80% of the globe is watching WWE programming and that's gonna shift to 100% over the next few years" ~ @TripleH #PMSLive pic.twitter.com/h9Am3rvyzV

— Pat McAfee (@PatMcAfeeShow) January 6, 2025

Innovative Technology for a Premium Experience

WWE has incorporated cutting-edge technology to elevate the production. Rehearsals featured tools like a point-to-point sky cam, a techno crane for in-ring shots, and drones for innovative angles. A dedicated drone team will capture behind-the-scenes moments, providing viewers with intimate, never-before-seen perspectives.

“We’re leaning into these drones to bring fans closer to the action,” said Fadem. The production also features a drone show with 1,200 drones, some equipped with pyrotechnics, and aerial coverage from the Goodyear Blimp.

Biggest Brand Presence in WWE History

The Netflix debut boasts the largest-ever brand presence for Raw. Hulk Hogan’s Real American Beer has signed a multi-year partnership, becoming the first sponsor to feature branding on the ring mat corners. Other partners include Epic Games, Cricket, and returning presenting partner Snickers.

Ahh their it is why he will be on RAW

— AlbiA (@AlbaniaUre1) January 6, 2025

Royal Rumble Heads to Saudi Arabia in 2026

In addition to the Netflix milestone, WWE announced a landmark expansion for its Royal Rumble event. For the first time in its 39-year history, the Royal Rumble will be held outside North America, taking place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in January 2026.

This decision is part of WWE’s partnership with Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority (GEA) and aligns with the Kingdom’s broader entertainment initiatives. “Saudi Arabia’s hosting of the Royal Rumble reflects our commitment to bringing the world’s largest entertainment events to the Kingdom,” said HE Turki Alalshikh, Chairman of GEA.

Nick Khan, WWE President, added, “WWE is a global enterprise, and expanding our relationship with the Kingdom by bringing one of our biggest events to Riyadh was a natural step.”

A New Era for WWE

Made me shed a tear all of them in a wrestling canvas. pic.twitter.com/eDmuCwkWar

— HeyWyatt (@Jwookiez) January 6, 2025

With its Netflix debut and international expansion, WWE continues to redefine its reach and legacy. From breaking new ground with advanced production techniques to hosting iconic events like the Royal Rumble on a global stage, WWE’s commitment to delivering unparalleled entertainment remains steadfast. Fans worldwide can look forward to a bold and innovative chapter in the company’s history.