WWE RAW ushered in a bold new era with its Netflix debut on January 6, 2025. Packed with jaw-dropping matches, emotional arcs like John Cena’s farewell tour, and major twists such as Solo Sikoa’s rise as the new Tribal Chief, this premiere set the stage for a thrilling future in professional wrestling. Here’s a breakdown of the night’s most memorable moments and what they mean for the WWE Universe.
A revolutionary partnership: WWE RAW on Netflix
The transition of WWE RAW to Netflix marks a historic shift for sports entertainment. By leveraging Netflix’s global reach and production capabilities, WWE aims to enhance the fan experience. This inaugural episode offered ad-free matches for international viewers and delivered incredible cinematic visuals that left fans and critics impressed.
Held at the Intuit Dome in Los Angeles, California, the premiere wasn’t just a regular episode of RAW—it was a spectacle. Triple H described the move as “the future of storytelling,” emphasizing how this partnership allows WWE to expand its audience and storytelling potential. Fans also noted the stunning new stage design that seamlessly blended WWE tradition with Netflix’s high production standards, raising the bar for future episodes.
Tribal Combat: Solo Sikoa becomes the new Tribal Chief
The Tribal Combat match between Roman Reigns and Solo Sikoa was the most anticipated event of the evening. The sacred Ula-Fala was on the line, symbolizing leadership within the Bloodline faction. With family pride and legacy at stake, this wasn’t just a wrestling match—it was a battle for the soul of the Anoa’i dynasty.
The match featured dramatic interferences from WWE superstars like Jimmy Uso, Cody Rhodes, and even The Rock. In a shocking climax, The Rock handed the Ula-Fala to Solo Sikoa, signaling a seismic shift in the Bloodline hierarchy. This twist has ignited speculation that The Rock orchestrated Solo’s rise, potentially positioning himself as the mastermind behind the new Bloodline faction.
A question of loyalty: Paul Heyman’s role
Throughout the match, Paul Heyman’s behavior sparked speculation about his allegiance. Known as Roman Reigns’ “Wise Man,” Heyman appeared conflicted during key moments of the bout. Some fans believe he may be prepared to align with Solo Sikoa in this new era of the Bloodline, potentially betraying Reigns. This developing storyline adds another layer of intrigue to the ongoing family drama.
CM Punk vs. Seth Rollins: A grudge match years in the making
The premiere also delivered one of the most anticipated clashes in WWE history: CM Punk versus Seth Rollins. This rivalry has been simmering for over a decade, and the match did not disappoint. From the opening bell, both athletes showcased unparalleled intensity, with Punk relying on his technical mastery and Rollins delivering his signature high-flying offense.
The crowd erupted as Punk countered Rollins’ “Curb Stomp” with his iconic Go to Sleep (GTS) finisher, securing a hard-fought victory. The match was a testament to both superstars’ storytelling abilities, blending their real-life animosity with WWE’s kayfabe drama. Fans are already speculating that this feud could culminate in a marquee match at WrestleMania 41.
John Cena’s farewell tour begins
Another emotional highlight of the night came with the return of John Cena, who announced that 2025 would be his final year in WWE. The 16-time World Champion received a standing ovation from the Los Angeles crowd as he addressed the WWE Universe. “This isn’t goodbye—it’s a celebration of everything we’ve achieved together,” Cena said in an emotional promo. “Let’s make this last ride unforgettable.”
Cena’s ultimate goal? To break Ric Flair’s record and become the first wrestler to achieve 17 World Championship titles. His farewell tour is expected to include appearances at major events like the Royal Rumble 2025 and culminate in a historic match at WrestleMania later this year. Fans are already rallying behind Cena, hoping he can cement his legacy as the greatest of all time.
Undercard highlights: Domin ance from Ripley and a surprise victory by Jey Uso
The undercard delivered high-energy matches and pivotal moments that set the tone for future storylines. Rhea Ripley faced Liv Morgan in a fierce showdown that brought their heated rivalry to a dramatic conclusion. Ripley emerged victorious, solidifying her status as one of WWE’s dominant forces. Post-match, fans were treated to an iconic moment when The Undertaker rode to the ring on his legendary motorcycle to acknowledge Ripley’s triumph, blending nostalgia with the rise of new talent.
Meanwhile, Jey Uso shocked fans with a surprise win against Drew McIntyre. Using quick thinking and strategic counters, Jey secured a decisive pinfall, marking another significant milestone in his singles career. McIntyre’s frustration post-match hinted at a potential character shift, leaving fans speculating about his next move.
The dawn of a new era in WWE storytelling
WWE RAW’s debut on Netflix wasn’t just an episode—it was a statement. By combining top-tier production values, dramatic storytelling, and a renewed focus on fan engagement, WWE has set the stage for a transformative era in sports entertainment. The absence of commercials for international viewers and Netflix’s cinematic approach created an immersive experience that resonated with fans globally.
As the WWE Universe looks ahead, the stakes have never been higher. Will Solo Sikoa’s reign as Tribal Chief face immediate challenges? Can CM Punk and Seth Rollins escalate their feud to WrestleMania-worthy proportions? And will John Cena achieve his dream of a record-breaking 17th championship before his final farewell? One thing is certain—this partnership with Netflix promises an exciting road ahead, filled with unforgettable moments and groundbreaking drama.
