Paul Heyman: Netflix Was WWE’s First Choice for Raw Deal – Inside the Streaming Strategy

One Big Thing

Paul Heyman confirms Netflix was WWE’s preferred streaming destination for Raw, despite other options like Amazon Prime and Paramount Plus being available.

Key Details

• Netflix emerged as WWE’s top choice due to its position as the leading content distribution platform
• Other streaming services and USA Network were in consideration for Raw rights
• WWE talent focused on creative content while business leaders pursued Netflix deal

Direct Quote

“Netflix is the premier distribution platform for today’s viewer of content,” Heyman said on Sport Media with Richard Deitsch.

Why It Matters

The move to Netflix marks WWE’s first major streaming partnership for its flagship show Raw, signaling a shift in how wrestling content will be distributed globally.

By The Numbers

• Raw consistently ranks among WWE’s most-watched weekly programs
• Netflix reaches over 260 million paid subscribers worldwide
• The deal is valued at more than $5 billion over 10 years

Behind The Scenes

Heyman revealed that while wrestlers concentrated on storylines and matches, business executives were “praying every day that it would be Netflix.”

The Bottom Line

WWE’s strategic choice of Netflix as its streaming partner positions Raw for expanded global reach and potentially transforms how wrestling fans consume content.

What’s Your Take?

Do you think WWE made the right choice selecting Netflix as Raw’s new home? Share your thoughts in the comments below.