Netflix to Exclusively Stream All WWE Matches Starting New Year... Expanding Live Content

Global OTT platform Netflix announced on the 29th that starting January 1st next year, it will exclusively stream all weekly and premium matches of the world-renowned professional wrestling entertainment show 'WWE' (World Wrestling Entertainment).

Through this partnership, Netflix is expanding its business into the live sports entertainment sector beyond its existing movies, series, and variety content. The strategy is to enhance platform competitiveness through strengthened real-time broadcast content.

WWE is a professional wrestling entertainment show with a long history, producing global wrestling stars such as Hulk Hogan, The Undertaker, Steve Austin, The Rock, and John Cena. It has secured a strong fan base in Korea, having been broadcast in the past through the U.S. Forces Korea Network AFKN (now AFN Korea).

⬦ From 'RAW' to 'WrestleMania'... Unlimited Access Without Additional Payment

The WWE content streamed by Netflix includes core weekly programs such as 'Raw', 'SmackDown', and 'NXT', as well as all premium live events (PLE) including the largest wrestling festival 'WrestleMania', 'Royal Rumble', 'SummerSlam', and 'Money in the Bank'.

Any Netflix member can watch all WWE content without additional payment. With just the existing subscription fee, fans can enjoy both weekly matches and premium events, significantly improving accessibility for fans.

⬦ Netflix Moves from 'Recorded Broadcasts' to 'Live Sports' Era

Netflix also provides a replay service for fans who miss live matches. Additionally, it plans to produce exclusive content utilizing WWE's vast archive.

Kang Dong-han, Vice President of Netflix's Korean Content Division, stated, "WWE, with its strong storytelling and unique live appeal, will elevate the entertainment experience that only Netflix can provide," and added, "We will continue to strengthen our global live lineup to offer a more diverse viewing experience to our domestic members."

Netflix's exclusive WWE streaming suggests that competition for securing live sports content in the OTT market will become even fiercer. Industry experts predict that this partnership will positively impact Netflix's subscriber retention and acquisition.