Ladies and gentlemen, it’s official: WWE’s Netflix debut of Monday Night Raw didn’t just make waves; it created a tsunami of viewership numbers that even the Undertaker would rise up to see. According to analytics provided by Wrestlenomics and VideoAmp, a whopping 2.6 million U.S. households tuned in to the premiere, marking a 16% increase over the 2024 average. Talk about hitting a ratings Sweet Chin Music!
If you thought that was impressive, the global Live+1 views number skyrocketed to 4.9 million. Sure, WWE and Netflix opted to count households instead of individual viewers, but based on Wrestlenomics’ math, the headcount likely translates to 3.5 million people glued to their screens. That’s double the 2024 average—numbers so good, Vince McMahon might have tried to book himself for a match.
Netflix vs. Nielsen: Who’s Calling the Shots?
Now, before you start breaking out the “Austin 3:16” signs in celebration, there’s a small catch. VideoAmp’s numbers, which were also used to measure the Golden Globes, tend to be about 9% higher than Nielsen’s data. So while these stats feel like WrestleMania-worthy fireworks, there’s a chance we’re looking at a slightly inflated Undertaker-sized shadow of reality.
What Fueled This Ratings Explosion?
The Raw Netflix debut was a wrestling buffet:
- The Rock delivered an electrifying promo that could have powered the arena’s lights.
- CM Punk took down Seth Rollins in a match dripping with grudge-fueled drama.
- Hulk Hogan got showered with boos so loud they’ll likely be used for Netflix’s next horror soundtrack.
- And, of course, a medley of current stars, legends, and even some Hollywood cameos kept the action hotter than Kane’s pyro budget.
What’s Next?
While this debut’s success is undeniable, the real question is whether Raw will keep the momentum or if this was a one-night-only spectacle. One thing’s for sure: between Netflix, global streaming data, and a rain of boos, WWE is flexing its muscles in ways that would make the Ultimate Warrior proud.