All the way back in January 2024, World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) announced a significant deal that would see their “flagship show,” “Monday Night Raw”, transition to a new platform. This show holds the record for being the longest-running weekly episodic television show in history, making the move a noteworthy event in the entertainment industry. WWE’s decision to bring “Monday Night Raw” to Netflix marked a strategic shift, aimed at reaching a broader audience and leveraging the streaming giant’s extensive global reach. The anticipation built up over the year culminated in the show’s debut on Netflix on January 6, 2025, allowing fans to stream their favorite wrestling moments and storylines on demand. The choice to move to Netflix not only expanded WWE’s presence in the digital streaming space, but also provided Netflix subscribers with a new, exciting addition to their viewing options.
The first episode, live from Los Angeles, was a star-studded affair that truly set the stage for WWE’s new era on Netflix. Current stars like Roman Reigns, Michael Cole, Pat McAfee, Seth Rollins, CM Punk, Damien Priest, Rhea Ripley and Liv Morgan delivered electrifying performances that had the crowd on their feet. Adding to the excitement, legends such as the “Immortal” Hulk Hogan, the “Mouth of the South” Jimmy Hart, the “Most Electrifying Man in Sports Entertainment” The Rock and current WWE Chief Content Officer “The King of Kings” and “The Game” Paul “Triple H” Levesque made special appearances, bringing a sense of nostalgia and grandeur to the event.
One of the most emotional moments of the night was the beginning of John Cena’s retirement tour, a heartfelt occasion that resonated deeply with fans who have followed his illustrious career. The main event was a highly anticipated match between Seth Rollins and CM Punk, two of the most dynamic and charismatic performers in WWE today. Their clash in the ring was nothing short of spectacular, showcasing their incredible athleticism and storytelling abilities. Overall, the first episode was a perfect blend of current talent and legendary figures, making it an unforgettable kickoff for WWE’s journey on Netflix.
The second episode of “Raw” on Netflix was packed with excitement and showcased a stellar lineup of WWE talent. Fans were thrilled to see stars like Drew McIntyre, Sami Zayn, Chad Gable, Sheamus and Gunther in action, each bringing their unique style and energy to the ring. The episode was particularly noteworthy for the highly anticipated debut of Penta, who made a strong impression with his performance. Another highlight was Lyra Valkyria’s impressive victory over Dakota Kai, which earned her the title of the inaugural Women’s United States champion, marking a significant milestone in her career. The episode also featured a thrilling street fight between Damian Priest and Finn Balor, a match that kept viewers on the edge of their seats with its intense and unpredictable action. This combination of debuts, title matches and high-stakes showdowns made the second episode a must-watch for wrestling fans.
