WWE Monday Night RAW has officially made its debut on Netflix, ushering in what many believe to be a new era for the wrestling giant. On January 6, 2025, the iconic wrestling program transformed its traditional viewing experience by being streamed live from the Intuit Dome, located in Los Angeles, California. This highly anticipated launch was not just about the matches; it promised to be packed with celebrity appearances and unprecedented excitement.
The event showcased several thrilling matches featuring top WWE superstars, making it clear from the get-go why the wrestling community was buzzing with enthusiasm. Fans were treated to high-stakes encounters, including CM Punk taking on Seth Rollins, Jey Uso versus Drew McIntyre, and Rhea Ripley challenging Liv Morgan for the Women’s World Championship. The headline match saw Roman Reigns face Solo Sikoa, and it captured the attention of fans across the globe.
John Cena, known for his significant influence on wrestling culture, also graced the RAW stage, marking the beginning of his retirement tour, which is set to culminate with his final farewell in December 2025. “We are excited to launch this partnership and bring WWE to Netflix,” stated a WWE representative, reinforcing how this collaboration would evolve the way fans engage with their content.
One of the standout moments of the evening occurred when Travis Scott stepped away from music and ventured onto the wrestling scene. Serving as the ring escort for Jey Uso, Scott walked down from the upper levels of the venue, creating quite the buzz. Observers weren’t just talking about his appearance; they were captivated by him seemingly enjoying a tightly rolled blunt as he made his way to the ring. The incident sparked mixed reactions. “Travis smoking the za in the middle of a WWE crowd was not on my 2025 bingo card,” one social media user remarked, reflecting how shocking the moment was for many.
Turning back to the matches, the night delivered some thrilling action. The main event showcased CM Punk taking on Seth Rollins. Fans were on the edge of their seats as both competitors exchanged blows, demonstrating why they are both revered as top-tier talent. Punk eventually claimed victory with his signature move, the Go To Sleep, putting him on high ground among the evening's winners.
Another highlight was Jey Uso’s unexpected win over Drew McIntyre, showcasing Uso’s resilience and skill. This win demonstrated the intense competition and unpredictability of the matches. Likewise, Rhea Ripley triumphed over Liv Morgan, not only becoming the new Women’s World Champion but also positioning herself as one of the standout stars from the premiere.
The event also features appearances from legends like Hulk Hogan and The Undertaker, adding to the nostalgic atmosphere of the night. Although Hogan received some boos from the audience, the legacy he brings to professional wrestling was undeniable.
WWE’s investment in Netflix could reshape the scope of how wrestling is consumed. The partnership aims at creating enhanced viewing experiences, making programming more accessible, and attracting new audiences. With WWE now available on Netflix, it potentially reaches younger and more tech-savvy demographics who may have never previously engaged with wrestling content.
While fans celebrated the launch, discussions around concerns also arose. The integration of live streaming with taped shows could disrupt the cherishable live aspect of WWE programming. Fans speculated whether WWE could maintain the thrill of real-time broadcasts as they integrated new formats and special content like documentaries or behind-the-scenes features.
That said, the future looks bright for WWE and their fans, who eagerly anticipate what this new partnership with Netflix will yield. Could we see more celebrities stepping onto the wrestling stage? Will there be innovative matches or storytelling formats introduced? One thing seems certain: with the combination of sports entertainment and streaming, WWE is paving the path for its next chapter.
Overall, the debut of WWE Monday Night RAW on Netflix was not just another wrestling show; it was the beginning of what many hope will be transformative years for the genre, combining wrestling, entertainment, and unexpected moments—like Travis Scott’s surprising presence—to capture the attention of fans all around the world.