Major Change to WWE’s Partnership with USA Network Amid Streaming Shift

The WWE-USA Network partnership is undergoing significant changes as Monday Night Raw prepares to leave the cable network for its Netflix debut in January 2025. This transition coincides with broader shifts within NBCUniversal, including plans by parent company Comcast to spin off its cable TV networks in a $7 billion move. Among the networks affected is the USA Network, which has been home to WWE programming for decades.

WWE Programming Realignment

WWE has been restructuring its broadcasting partnerships throughout 2024. In September, SmackDown moved from USA Network to Fox, while NXT transitioned to The CW Network in October. With Raw set to air on Netflix starting January 6, 2025, SmackDown will be the sole WWE show remaining on the USA Network.

These changes reflect WWE’s evolving media strategy, aimed at embracing streaming platforms and diversifying its audience reach.

USA Network’s Role Moving Forward

While USA Network will continue to broadcast SmackDown, its future involvement with WWE remains uncertain. Comcast’s spin-off of NBCUniversal’s cable networks could impact the channel’s operations and its relationship with WWE. This shift highlights the increasing challenges faced by traditional cable networks as streaming platforms gain dominance.

WWE’s Streaming Strategy with Netflix

WWE’s move to Netflix marks a groundbreaking shift, with Raw becoming the first live weekly WWE show exclusively available on a streaming service. The Netflix deal includes additional content, such as live broadcasts of marquee events like NXT Deadline and Survivor Series WarGames. The partnership aligns with WWE’s vision of adapting to modern media consumption trends and reaching global audiences.

What’s Next for WWE?

As WWE navigates these significant changes, fans can expect a mix of nostalgia and innovation. The company’s move to streaming platforms like Netflix demonstrates its adaptability in an evolving media landscape. Meanwhile, the status of WWE’s partnership with USA Network remains a storyline to watch, especially as Comcast’s plans take shape.

These shifts ensure WWE’s continued relevance in the entertainment world while promising exciting new ways for fans to engage with their favorite shows and superstars.