As 2024 comes to a close, “WWE Raw” is set to experience serious changes as it transitions into the new year. WWE and USA Network have negotiated a new agreement to keep “Raw” on the network through December, extending its stay beyond the original schedule which would have seen it depart three months before its January 2025 debut on Netflix.
Additionally, starting October 7, “Raw” will revert to a two-hour format for the first time in 12 years, while the three-hour format will be available on Netflix. A topic of considerable fan discussion regarding “Raw” on Netflix is the presence of commercials.
Typically, streaming platforms are marketed as ad-free for a subscription fee, but according to Dave Meltzer in the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, “Raw” will feature commercials even on Netflix.
This decision stems from Netflix’s strategy to increase commercial content in both its live and recorded programming. The platform sees “Raw” as an ideal test case, given wrestling fans’ accustomed tolerance for ads.
Netflix will offer more flexibility in ad placement and runtime compared to traditional TV. Meltzer pointed out that ads on Netflix might be shorter or more integrated into the programming, differing from traditional TV breaks. He also mentioned that the show’s runtime could vary to enhance the unpredictability of main event matches.