WWE’s Move to Netflix Japan: An Upgrade or Downgrade?
WWE is leaving a platform with 28 million weekly users in Japan and turning to Netflix as its primary content home. But is this a step up or down for the wrestling giant?
By Jake Jeremy
Published: 15 Sep 2026, 11:51
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WWE on Netflix (Image credit: WWE/Netflix)
Back in August, it was confirmed that WWE would be leaving the ABEMA service in Japan. Now, Netflix will take the reins as the primary platform for WWE content in the country, following similar moves in Europe and the UK.
While official subscriber numbers are not available from Netflix, we can gauge WWE’s new position based on public statements from both companies.
When it comes to paying subscribers:
- Netflix claims around 10 million plus members signed up in Japan (as per an official report in February 2025).
- ABEMA reported having 28 million weekly active users and occasionally reaching around 30 million users (via a CyberAgent report).
The deal with WWE allows Raw and SmackDown to air free, with Japanese commentary, during primetime.
Netflix’s Success in Japan
Despite the potential downgrade in viewer numbers, there are other factors to consider. Netflix has already proven its live sports streaming success in Japan, most notably with their exclusive coverage of the 2026 World Baseball Classic. According to Netflix’s own report:
- The tournament generated around 31.4 million viewer contacts across 47 games.
- The Japan vs Australia game alone reached an estimated 17.9 million viewers, making it Netflix’s most-watched title ever in Japan.
Baseball is a significant sport in Japan, but the potential for large audiences extends beyond that. Co-viewing and household viewing could significantly boost the ‘effective’ audience size.
Pros and Cons of the Move
It’s a delicate balance, but WWE’s move to Netflix in Japan presents both opportunities and challenges:
- Opportunity: The global reach of Netflix can expose WWE to a new audience within Japan who may become fans without initially subscribing.
- Challenge: Without the ‘top-of-funnel’ discovery element of ABEMA, it becomes harder for casual viewers to stumble upon WWE content. Now, access requires an existing Netflix subscription.
Ultimately, this is a trade-off—a 60/40 split in favor of global exposure and potential audience growth over the loss of initial discovery and exposure.
