WWE Raw’s Netflix debut on Monday captivated audiences with its star-studded lineup and electrifying atmosphere. The show, dubbed "WWE Raw on Netflix," kicked off amid cheers and excitement at the Intuit Dome in Los Angeles, featuring appearances from celebrities and wrestling legends alike.
Macaulay and Kieran Culkin delighted fans, garnering enthusiastic reactions, but it was The Rock and John Cena who stole the spotlight, also making surprise guest appearances. The night took on a celebratory feel, but not without its equally strong dose of theatrics. Travis Scott, known for his outlandish persona, added to the spectacle by smoking during the show.
Among the key performers, Hulk Hogan found himself in the unusual position of being booed by the crowd—evidence of the unpredictable and passionate nature of wrestling fans. The most notable controversy arose when tag team duo The New Day, consisting of Xavier Woods and Kofi Kingston, ignited the audience's ire after they dismissively referred to Kendrick Lamar as “a trash rapper.” Reflecting on this moment, Kingston quipped, “Yeah, boo him. We think he sucks, too,” which only intensified the jeers from the audience.
The Kendrick Lamar subreddit exploded with reactions from fans, some excited about the heel turn, claiming, “Honestly didn’t buy their heel turn till this moment.” Another fan remarked on how strange yet amusing it was to witness such remarks made “in Los Angeles,” where the rapper enjoys significant fame.
Despite the mixed reactions to certain celebrities, the overall response to WWE Raw on Netflix was overwhelmingly positive. Fans were excited to witness this pivotal moment, resulting from WWE's monumental $5 billion deal with Netflix allowing the flagship show to be aired live globally, without extra costs for subscribers. This landmark agreement marks the dawn of a new era for WWE and its programming.
The debut episode also showcased thrilling matches featuring superstars such as Roman Reigns, who defended his Tribal Chief title after defeating Solo Sikoa, CM Punk against Seth Rollins, and Liv Morgan battling Rhea Ripley. The action-packed card thrilled fans, adding to the buzz surrounding WWE's new venture.
Triple H, WWE's chief content officer, initiated this new beginning by welcoming viewers to the show. Following him was TKO board member and WWE legend The Rock, who took to the ring to share his thoughts on this exciting phase for WWE on Netflix. Presenting the Ula Fala, an artifact of significance from Samoan heritage, The Rock’s return was highly anticipated. He praised his cousin Reigns’s victory, intertwining his personal legacy with the current storyline.
Nevertheless, die-hard fans had their opinions about The Rock’s portrayal during the show. While he embraced his previous persona, many spectators missed the more villainous "Final Boss" character he adopted leading up to WrestleMania 40. Commenting on this, several fans voiced their disappointment, with one saying, "Why is he just being The Rock again, where is my The Final Boss?" Another added, "That was The Rock, but the streets NEED The Final Boss! WAKE TF UP." Such sentiments reflected the nostalgia and longing for the intense rivalries usually inherent to wrestling.
Many questioned The Rock’s role on the night, feeling it catered more to casual viewers rather than the loyal fan base. One fan expressed frustration, noting, "Cody hugging Rock like we ain't forget about the ass whoopings he got from the Final Boss." The overall consensus was clear; fans wanted the gripping and confrontational elements of wrestling they had grown to love.
The Rock, who has solidified his status as both a wrestling and Hollywood icon, remains intertwined with WWE not only as a performer but also as part of TKO's board of directors. According to SEC filings, he recently acquired 96,557 Class A shares of TKO stock, significantly increasing his holdings to reach approximately $41 million. Along with financial stakes, The Rock still maintains his rights to the famed "Rock" name, establishing his continued influence both behind the scenes and inside the ring.
The launch of WWE Raw on Netflix signifies a pivotal transition for WWE, offering fans immediate access to high-level content without increased subscription fees. The entrenchment of wrestling programming on mainstream platforms like Netflix could reshape how fans engage with their favorite shows. The possibilities for growth and visibility are immense—promising exciting changes for both WWE and its widespread fan base.
Even amid mixed receptions and competitive characters, fans are undoubtedly thrilled about the new opportunities this streaming partnership presents. They eagerly anticipate how WWE will evolve, considering past dynamic story arcs and the ever-fluctuating nature of pro wrestling. A new chapter has begun, and all eyes are on WWE Raw as it embarks on this enticing Netflix venture.