## The Rock Electrifies Netflix’s WWE Debut at Intuit Dome
The world of professional wrestling transformed last Monday as Netflix premiered it’s inaugural broadcast of WWE’s flagship show, *Monday Night Raw*, live from the Intuit Dome in Los Angeles. This momentous event marked the beginning of a new era for both WWE and the streaming giant, fueled by a groundbreaking $5 billion rights deal.
For me, a lifelong wrestling fan whose childhood memories are permanently etched with the “Come Back Hulk” storyline, this marked a significant shift in the landscape. The move to Netflix signifies more than just a change of venue. It’s a strategic play by WWE to broaden its global reach, tapping into the streamer’s massive subscriber base of over 282 million worldwide.
As WWE president Nick Khan highlighted in a December preview, the goal is to amplify WWE’s ”global flair” and attract a new generation of fans. While the success of this global expansion remains to be seen, the atmosphere at the Intuit Dome on Monday night was electric, a testament to the enduring appeal of wrestling.Perhaps the most captivating moment of the evening highlighted this Hollywood makeover. When Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, WWE’s most recognizable alumnus, took to the ring, the crowd roared with excitement. After a theatrical entrance that included a tender kiss on the forehead of Endeavor and WWE parent TKO Group Holdings CEO Ari Emanuel,Johnson playfully threatened Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos,quipping,”If The Rock finds out he was glitched,I’m going to go *Squid Game* on your candy ass.”
The event proceeded without any technical hiccups,unlike some of the other high-profile live streams attempted by Netflix. The successful launch of *monday Night Raw* on the platform sets the stage for a thrilling new chapter in the world of professional wrestling. Only time will tell if this partnership will achieve its enterprising global aspirations, but one thing is for sure: the hype surrounding the “Monday Night Raw” on Netflix era is real.
WWE’s Star-Studded Spectacle: A Glimpse Inside the World of Pro Wrestling
Table of Contents
The world of professional wrestling is a unique blend of athleticism, storytelling, and larger-than-life personalities. My recent experience at a WWE event at the Intuit Dome offered a glimpse into this captivating universe, a world filled with rivalries, championship belts, and a passionate fanbase.
While WWE has traditionally thrived on linear television networks like USA, The CW, and Fox, its recent foray into streaming via Peacock signifies a strategic move towards reaching a broader audience. This shift was evident in the electric atmosphere of the Intuit Dome, where the crowd roared with excitement at the sight of the Netflix “tudum” logo, highlighting the growing influence of streaming platforms.
The event itself was a captivating spectacle, featuring a mix of seasoned veterans and rising stars. Celebrity attendance added to the allure, with Hollywood A-listers like Ashton Kutcher, Vanessa hudgens, Macaulay Culkin, and Tiffany Haddish adding to the star power.
One match, part of a long-running feud within the Anoaʻi family, showcased the intricate narratives that weave through WWE programming. These wrestlers, portrayed as cousins from a Samoan lineage, battled over a necklace that resembled a chili wreath. The Rock, a prominent member of this wrestling dynasty, made a surprise appearance to present the winner with the coveted prize.
Another bout echoed the tabloid drama of the 2000s, with a female wrestler reenacting the Aniston-Jolie-Pitt saga by kicking her “ex” in the crotch, much to the amusement of the crowd. Even rapper Travis Scott, known for his energetic performances, made a cameo, adding to the event’s star-studded lineup.
Navigating the complex world of WWE championships and rivalries can be challenging for newcomers. While I struggled to grasp the significance of the various gold belts, the engaging storylines and dramatic in-ring action kept me engrossed. And when the narratives became muddled,numerous celebrity cameos served as welcome distractions.
john Cena, the WWE superstar known for his signature jorts, teased his rumoured farewell tour, further fueling the excitement surrounding the upcoming “the Royal Rumble” event.
Cena and Dwayne ”The rock” Johnson, who have both achieved mainstream success in Hollywood, remain deeply connected to the WWE universe. Despite their busy schedules,their commitment to the company is evident,and their presence at these events is a testament to the enduring power of the WWE brand.
Even Hulk Hogan, a wrestling legend who had a falling out with the WWE years ago, couldn’t resist the allure of the company’s gravitational pull. His recent declaration of a long-term partnership between his Real American Beer company and WWE further underscores the reach and influence of the wrestling giant.
The WWE’s star-studded spectacle showcased a world of athleticism, storytelling, and passionate fandom. it’s a world where rivalries run deep, championships are fiercely contested, and the roar of the crowd echoes long after the final bell rings.
The Unexpected Appeal of Booing: Why WWE Still Packs a Punch
It’s no secret that WWE has a devoted fanbase, but what is it about this larger-than-life spectacle that continues to draw in crowds? My recent foray into the world of professional wrestling revealed a surprising truth: the thrill of the boo.
Catharsis in the Crowd
I witnessed this firsthand at a live event. One wrestler, a 71-year-old veteran, received a cascade of boos as he entered the ring for what would be his final match.Some have attributed his reception to his public political stances, but even a newbie like myself could see this went deeper. These fans weren’t just expressing disapproval; they were reveling in the act of booing itself.
In a world where public discourse often feels sanitized and controlled, WWE offers a space for uninhibited expression. where else can you openly jeer and taunt with such gleeful abandon? Actors are too delicate for such treatment,and conventional athletes are frequently enough seen as untouchable icons. But WWE performers not only embrace the boos,they seemingly thrive on them. With a smirk and a defiant arm raise, they command the crowd’s energy, transforming heckling into a kind of twisted performance art.
For the audience, booing our villains can be just as cathartic as cheering for our heroes.It allows us to collectively release frustration, to vent our disapproval in a safe and controlled environment. And while a seasoned wrestling fan might argue that the whole production could benefit from some tightening up (those elaborate entrances can feel a bit drawn out), there’s an undeniable appeal to this unapologetically boisterous form of entertainment.
In an age of carefully curated online personas and virtual echo chambers, WWE offers a refreshingly raw and unfiltered experience. The prospect to participate in this collective catharsis,to let loose and boo with abandon,might just be the secret ingredient to its enduring popularity. Who knows, maybe even the Netflix crowd, used to passively consuming content at the whim of algorithms, will find themselves swept up in the thrill of the boo.
WWE/Getty Images
What is The Rock’s take on John Cena’s rumored farewell tour?
Archyde Exclusive Interview: A Conversation with WWE Legend and Hollywood Icon, Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson
By Archys, Archyde News Editor
Archyde: Dwayne, thank you for taking the time too speak with us.The recent Netflix debut of Monday Night Raw was a monumental moment for WWE and the entertainment industry. How does it feel to be at the forefront of this historic shift?
The Rock: First of all, thank you for having me. It’s always a pleasure to connect with fans and share the journey.This Netflix deal is a game-changer,not just for WWE but for the entire sports entertainment landscape. To see the WWE logo alongside the Netflix “tudum” is surreal. It’s a testament to how far we’ve come—from the days of packed arenas and cable TV to now reaching over 282 million subscribers worldwide. It’s electrifying, and I’m honored to be part of it.
Archyde: Speaking of electrifying, your surprise appearance at the Intuit Dome had the crowd roaring.That moment with Ted Sarandos and the Squid Game reference was pure gold. How do you balance your Hollywood persona with your WWE roots?
The Rock: (Laughs) You know, it’s all about staying true to who you are. Whether I’m in the ring, on a movie set, or sitting down with someone like Ted Sarandos, I always bring that same energy and authenticity.WWE is my foundation—it’s where I learned to connect with people, to tell stories, and to entertain.Hollywood has given me a global platform, but my heart will always be in that ring. And hey, if I can throw in a Squid Game reference to keep things fresh, why not?
Archyde: The Anoaʻi family feud and the chili wreath necklace storyline were highlights of the night. As a member of the Anoaʻi dynasty,how does it feel to see your family’s legacy continue to shape WWE?
The Rock: Man,that’s a great question. The Anoaʻi family is the backbone of WWE. Our lineage is rooted in tradition, respect, and a deep love for this business. To see the next generation carrying that torch—whether it’s Roman Reigns, The Usos, or the rising stars—it fills me with pride.That chili wreath storyline? It’s a nod to our Samoan heritage, and it’s moments like those that remind us why we do what we do. It’s not just about the matches; it’s about the stories,the culture,and the connection with the fans.
Archyde: The event also featured some astonishing celebrity cameos—Ashton Kutcher, Vanessa Hudgens, Travis Scott, and more. How important are these crossovers in bringing new audiences to WWE?
The Rock: Crossovers are huge. They bring a fresh energy and introduce WWE to people who might not have tuned in before. When you see someone like Travis Scott, who’s a global icon in his own right, getting involved, it creates a buzz.It’s not just about wrestling anymore; it’s about entertainment on a grand scale. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a little Hollywood flair mixed with body slams and suplexes?
archyde: John Cena teased his rumored farewell tour during the event. As someone who’s also juggled WWE and Hollywood, what’s your take on his journey and the idea of a farewell tour?
The Rock: John is a brother to me. We’ve shared the ring, we’ve shared the screen, and we’ve shared the grind. His dedication to WWE and his ability to transition into Hollywood is incredible.A farewell tour? That’s a big deal. It’s a chance for him to give back to the fans who’ve supported him throughout his career. If that’s the route he’s taking, I know it’ll be unforgettable. And who knows? Maybe The Rock will make a cameo or two. (Winks)
Archyde: what’s next for The Rock? Between WWE, Hollywood, and your various business ventures, how do you keep it all together?
The Rock: (Laughs) It’s all about balance and staying hungry. I’ve got some exciting projects coming up—both in WWE and in Hollywood. I’m also focused on growing my production company, Seven Bucks Productions, and continuing to build brands that inspire and entertain. but at the end of the day, it’s about the people. Whether it’s the fans in the arena, the viewers at home, or my family, they’re the reason I keep pushing. So stay tuned, because The Rock’s just getting started.
Archyde: Dwayne, thank you for your time and for sharing your insights. We can’t wait to see what’s next for you and WWE.
The Rock: Thank you, and to all the fans out there—keep watching, keep cheering, and remember: know your role, and shut your mouth. Just kidding! (Laughs) Much love and respect.
End of Interview
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