WWE has completed its first year of airing Monday Night Raw on Netflix, and backstage reports suggest changes are being made to improve the viewing experience.
WWE and Netflix Partnership
The move to Netflix in January 2025 marked a major shift for WWE, bringing its flagship show to a global streaming audience. Alongside Raw, several WWE products and premium live events (PLEs) have also found a home on the platform following the end of WWE’s deal with Peacock. The WWE library, previously without a streaming partner, is now accessible to fans worldwide through Netflix. The partnership has proven successful. Raw consistently ranked in Netflix’s global top 10, appearing in 47 weekly lists over the past year. Of the 500 million viewers WWE attracted on the platform, Raw accounted for approximately 340 million.
Fan Complaints About Ads
Despite the strong numbers, fans voiced concerns about the number of advertisements during episodes. While streaming promised a smoother experience compared to traditional cable, viewers noted that ad frequency remained high. According to Fightful Select, WWE and Netflix are now working to reduce the number of ads per show. The report claims the companies have cut ad slots from 12 to 10, beginning with last week’s episode. It remains unclear whether this change will also affect the length of individual ad breaks.
Industry Reaction
Former WWE star Tommy Dreamer praised the Netflix partnership, saying the company continues to deliver “great wrestling entertainment” every Monday. Industry insiders believe reducing ad interruptions could further strengthen the show’s appeal, especially for international audiences accustomed to ad‑free streaming. Media analysts note that Netflix’s experiment with live sports and entertainment programming is still evolving. Adjusting ad loads could be part of a broader strategy to balance revenue generation with viewer satisfaction.
Looking Ahead
With WWE expanding its presence on Netflix, including PLEs and archival content, the partnership is expected to grow in scope. The reduction in ads may be a small but significant step toward making Raw more competitive in the streaming era. As WWE continues to adapt to changing media landscapes, fans can expect further tweaks to enhance watchability. For now, fewer ads during Raw could mean more uninterrupted action inside the ring.
