WWE set to make first-time-ever change to RAW in March during Netflix deal? - Reports (Exclusive)
WWE's ground-breaking RAW on Netflix deal begins in early January 2025. The new era is going to bring about a lot of changes, and a new report has stated that the sports entertainment giant is in a position to make a first-time-ever change in the month of March.
Some of you might know this, but for those who don't, the final month on the road to WrestleMania 41 is going to be a bit unconventional from a viewer's perspective. As WWE is embarking on a major European tour during March, it leaves them in a position where they have to hold RAW and SmackDown tapings in Europe as well.
Barcelona, Brussels, Bologna, Glasgow, and London will be the cities where the tapings take place. Due to the time difference, the shows will likely be taped in what will be mid-day in the United States. For example, Central European Time (CET) is 6 hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time (EST/ET) while Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) is 5 hours ahead of EST. So what does this have to do with Netflix?
On WrestleVotes Radio exclusively on Backstage Pass, JoeyVotes and TC said that Netflix officials are happy to air RAW live regardless of what time it's taped. This could mean a first-time-ever change where Monday Night RAW airs in the middle of the day. WWE is reportedly still considering this, but Netflix is fully on board with this idea - so it seems to be a decision that Triple H and Nick Khan will have to make.
What is the status of the WWE Draft with both RAW and SmackDown changing networks?
Fightful Select reported that while Netflix has requested certain major names like Cody Rhodes, Roman Reigns, and CM Punk for RAW, they also understand that there will need to be equality as SmackDown needs big stars too.
The brand split is not dead and as of now, superstars aren't aware of which brand they'll be assigned to. The $500-million-a-year broadcasting fee that Netflix is paying for the red brand could put WWE in a tough position, but it's unlikely that they would leave SmackDown out to dry as the USA Network is also paying a huge fee for broadcasting rights.
A brand split seems to make the most sense as it's a tried and tested method that has worked for years. WWE fans also seem to prefer having exclusive rosters as it gives more of a reason to tune in to each show.
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