The recent premiere of “WWE: Monday Night Raw” on Netflix marks a significant step in the SVOD giant’s entry into live TV. With 4.9 million views globally and an average of 2.6 million households in the US, this event confirms that sports content is poised to dominate broadcast and cable.
In comparison to Netflix’s previous live broadcasts, “Raw” brings modest but steady viewership. The $5 billion deal with WWE remains a monumental milestone for the company’s foray into live TV. While the event itself saw impressive numbers, its viewership falls short of that of high-profile boxing matches like Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson.
However, the success of “Raw” suggests a growing appetite for sports content on streaming platforms. With exclusive rights to WWE’s paid specials and shows outside the US, Netflix is well-positioned to capitalize on this trend. As traditional TV audiences continue to shrink, sports are emerging as a key area where viewers will pay for their favorite teams.
The recent exploration of Nielsen TV ratings demonstrates that viewer numbers have dwindled over the past decade. Sports-centric telecasts now dominate the top 100 most-watched shows, with nearly three-quarters of the list featuring sports content. This shift signals a significant blow to traditional TV’s reliance on sports as its last pillar.
WWE might be on the cusp of a new era, courtesy of streaming platforms that cater to younger audiences. The industry’s top executives acknowledge the threat posed by shifting viewer habits, but see streaming as a potential solution. As social video and short-form content continue to absorb Gen Z and Alpha’s attention, even sports may lose their appeal in the long run.
Source: https://variety.com/vip/netflix-wwe-raw-viewership-1236274376