Hulu Wrestled this One Away from Netflix

All I can say is, Netflix, you certainly had your chance. A recent announcement by WWE confirmed that the entertainment company has signed an agreement with Hulu in which WWE will provide all of its content exclusively to Hulu Plus subscribers.

What's The Big Deal?
I originally found out about this from an article in The Chicago Tribune, and was honestly shocked that Hulu won this business. Netflix has already licensed multiple character-specific series' from WWE, and it seemed like licensing their weekly shows would be a natural continuation of the relationship. If Netflix made this happen, it would have given the online-video provider some much needed current content. However, Hulu has now become the destination for millions of WWE fans.

If you're not a wrestling fan, maybe this sounds like it isn't that big of a deal. But let me assure you, WWE fans are some of the most loyal among all television viewers. WWE routinely flashes promotions during their shows saying that the previous week's show was watched more than any other show on all the major networks combined. It's not unusual for these shows to attract more viewers than events like the NBA playoffs or NFL games. The company's fans are very socially active, and topics on these television shows begin trending on Twitter within minutes. WWE RAW is also the longest running weekly episodic program in the history of television. RAW has aired over 1,000 episodes, which is nearly double the number of episodes of such classics as Seinfeld, M*A*S*H, and Lassie, just to name a few.

How Does This Hurt Netflix?
I understand that NBCUniversal backs both Hulu and USA Network (which carries WWE RAW). But I honestly can't believe that Netflix couldn't find a way to make this deal. An expanded relationship with WWE would've been a perfect fit considering that these episodes run year-round, and are televised every Monday and Friday. However, not only will Netflix not have access to the RAW and Smackdown shows, but WWE is also launching a new show called Main Event on Oct. 3 on the independently owned ION channel. This gives Hulu three brand new shows that run year round on an exclusive license. There is no way to refer to this as anything other than a huge loss for Netflix...More?

source: motley fool