WWE makes decision to return RAW to old format when it debuts on Netflix in 2025

Dave Meltzer reports in the Wrestling Observer Newsletter that WWE RAW will retain its three-hour format when it debuts on Netflix. The show’s traditional runtime will continue when it launches on January 6, 2025.

The veteran journalist shared key details about the programming structure, citing internal WWE sources:

While everyone expected this, it was confirmed by a key person in WWE that RAW will be three hours in January, along with SmackDown also moving to three hours.

RAW maintained its three-hour format from 2012 until October 7, 2024, when it briefly returned to two hours. This temporary change resulted from WWE’s new television agreements, which saw NXT move to The CW and SmackDown to USA Network. WWE and USA Network reached an agreement in May to extend RAW’s presence on the network until December 30.

WWE recently confirmed SmackDown’s expansion to three hours starting January 3. The blue brand had maintained a two-hour runtime since its UPN debut in 1999.

Netflix’s WWE streaming details

Netflix has outlined its WWE content distribution strategy. Live programming will be included in all subscription tiers without additional charges.

Starting January 6, Netflix becomes the exclusive home for WWE RAW in the United States and its territories, including American Samoa, Guam, Marshall Islands, Micronesia, Northern Mariana Islands, Palau, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

International subscribers in Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, the United Kingdom, and other territories will receive comprehensive WWE content, including SmackDown, NXT, and premium live events such as WrestleMania, SummerSlam, and Royal Rumble.

Episodes will be available immediately after live broadcast, with offline viewing options accessible approximately 48 hours post-airing. Netflix plans to introduce archival WWE content beginning January 2025.