WWE Network sets shutdown date as Netflix launch nears
For the majority of international viewers, WWE Network will officially be closed for business on January 1st, 2025, as WWE kicks off their multi-year deal with Netflix.
In an email sent to affected Network subscribers Friday, WWE confirmed the date along with a phrase that has some fans concerned when it comes to archive content.
As previously reported, weekly episodes of Raw, SmackDown & NXT will be available for international Netflix subscribers as well as premium live events. When it comes to the archives, the notice stated “Many of WWE’s top moments, along with historic PLEs and select programming, will be available on Netflix beginning January 1.”
With WWE owning the complete libraries of WCW and ECW in addition to Mid-South Wrestling, AWA, Smoky Mountain Wrestling, WCCW, and plenty of other defunct organizations, the exact availability of that content, in addition to older WWE content, is unknown.
When any remaining international WWE Network deals expire, those regions will also need to view WWE content on Netflix.
For the U.S. audience, Netflix will offer Raw and anticipated shoulder programming starting in January with any PLEs and archive content remaining on Peacock as their contract lasts until 2026.
WWE Network was first launched in February 2014.
Here’s the notice that was sent out:
“On January 1, 2025, WWE Network will no longer be available in your area. After January 1, Netflix will be the new exclusive home of WWE.
Netflix will bring WWE’s electrifying content all to one place, including weekly shows, Monday Night RAW, SmackDown and NXT, PLUS Premium Live Events (PLEs) such as WrestleMania, Royal Rumble, and SummerSlam.
Many of WWE’s top moments, along with historic PLEs and select programming, will be available on Netflix beginning January 1.
The premiere live episode of Monday Night RAW on Netflix airing on January 6 will feature some of the biggest names in WWE such as John Cena, Undisputed WWE Champion “The American Nightmare” Cody Rhodes, Roman Reigns, CM Punk, Bianca Belair, in addition to many other Superstars and guests including Travis Scott.
If you are already a Netflix subscriber, you’re all set. If you are not a Netflix subscriber, you will need to subscribe so you don’t miss a moment. We can’t wait for you to experience WWE on Netflix this January.
Sincerely,
WWE Network Support“
Since 2011, Josh has been a contributing editor to Wrestling Observer/F4WOnline.com and also hosts the Punch-Out podcast. He has also written for Fight Magazine, Bloody Elbow, Bleacher Report, and other websites. He's a 2000 graduate of the University of Maine, worked in pro sports, and once was an indie ring announcer.