WWE Staff Was Blindsided by RAW’s Switch to Two-Hour Format

WWE is going through significant changes, especially concerning their television programming. With RAW set to move to Netflix in 2025, the red brand will also be trimming its historically three-hour show by one hour. This unexpected shift came as a surprise to many within WWE.

Fans have long debated whether WWE RAW would benefit from a shorter runtime, and starting October 7, they will have the chance to see if their theories hold true. WWE has announced that RAW will transition to a two-hour format, marking a significant change for the flagship show.

WrestleVotes reported that the news of RAW losing an hour came as a shock to even those working behind the scenes. According to the report, many production and social media staff learned of the change “in real time” along with the public. The report also hinted at possible changes for 2025 when WWE moves to Netflix, as the company looks forward to more flexibility with run times.

“Regarding the news of RAW switching to 2 hours for the rest of the year, I’ve heard that many production and social staff who work behind the scenes found out in real time, just like the rest of us. As for what this means for 2025 and Netflix, one source said WWE is eagerly anticipating the freedom to vary run times as needed. No firm decision has been made either way.”

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WWE originally expanded RAW to three hours on May 17, 2012, with the new format beginning on the show’s 1,000th episode on July 23, 2012. After more than a decade of this extended format, RAW is now reverting back to two hours.

As part of WWE’s massive deal with Netflix, the streaming giant will not only broadcast RAW but will also acquire the rights to stream WWE’s other shows and specials outside the United States. This agreement, valued at over $5 billion, will last for 10 years, with an option to extend for an additional decade or opt out after five years, according to a regulatory filing by TKO Group.

We’ll continue monitoring this story and any other developments in the world of professional wrestling. The landscape is constantly evolving, and we will be here to provide all the latest news at Ringside News.

What’s your take on WWE RAW moving to a two hour show? Will it help the flow of things taking an hour off the broadcast? Let us know what you think in the comments section!