WWE Raw to test new start times with Netflix

WWE will alter the start time for its weekly flagship show Raw over the next month as the company and streaming partner Netflix test different broadcast windows to better balance primetime competition, live-audience needs and international scheduling. The trial will move this Monday’s episode to 7 PM Eastern, return most October broadcasts to the traditional 8 PM Eastern slot, and include one post-Crown Jewel episode airing at 8 AM Eastern to accommodate the time difference while the company is in Australia.

Under the planned schedule, Raw will air at 7 PM Eastern this coming Monday, then revert to the 8 PM Eastern start for the October episodes scheduled for the first, third and fourth Mondays of the month. Reports differ on which mid-October episode will air at 8 AM Eastern; some listings indicate the earlier slot will fall the day after Crown Jewel on October 13, while others identify October 15. The earlier morning timing is intended to align the show with live coverage from Australia.

Company and scheduling considerations are driving the temporary shifts. WWE and Netflix are experimenting with start times to reduce the impact of NFL competition on television and streaming...