WWE Netflix Deal Could Spell Doom For Popular Fan Events

The post-USA Network destination for Monday Night RAW was revealed this week, with WWE’s flagship show making its way to the streaming juggernaut Netflix in 2025. However, the deal might bring an end to some popular fan events.

As previously reported, WWE and Netflix have officially confirmed a mind-boggling deal to shift Monday Night RAW to the streaming service, which will begin in January 2025. The reported deal, valued at over $5 billion for a duration of ten years, has astonished many due to how ludicrous it really is.

One aspect of the wrestling business that might be significantly impacted by the deal is the unofficial live screening of fan events. These gatherings, where fans come together to watch wrestling events, often featuring guests, competitions, and other entertainment, could face challenges or changes due to the shift to streaming on Netflix.

Hooked On Wrestling, which is known for organizing watch parties, took to Twitter and mentioned that while the news about Netflix being the new home for WWE content in the UK is exciting for fans, it poses a challenge for them. Broadcasting Netflix on commercial premises is not legal, which means unless a deal is reached, 2024 would be the last year of the watch parties.

“Whilst the news about @NetflixUK being the new home for all #WWE content in the UK is exciting and groundbreaking for fans, it is something of a hammer blow to us

“It’s not legal to air Netflix on commercial premises so unless there’s a deal done somewhere, 2024 would be the last year of HOW Watch Parties 😢”

Netflix usually doesn’t provide licenses for streaming content on commercial premises, and the WWE Network also restricts its programming from being shown in such settings. Watch parties, often playing pay-per-view events through other channels, have historically obtained licensing under the third-party platform route. The new deal with Netflix may disrupt this approach, so fans might just see the end of them altogether by the looks of it.

What do you think about this story concerning WWE’s deal with Netflix? Do you feel the watch parties might die out? Sound off in the comments section below!