Netflix’s new partnership with WWE has already begun to pave the way for increased brand involvement in the company. In addition to product placement during matches and 2K Sports’ continued advertising in their programming, the “WWE Raw” ring mat began to become populated with more sponsors.
While it remains to be seen what future sponsorship deals WWE might acquire, working with other brands will also provide more opportunities for wrestlers, according to WWE Hall of Famer Rikishi.
“I think the business is going to skyrocket a lot because now you have two big companies collaborating together, I think it’s probably going to open other doors for wrestlers,” Rikishi said on the “Off the top” podcast. “We’re sports entertainers, that’s what we are, but I kind of see sponsorships opening the doors now with Nike or Adidas… you see, Roman’s been out with Nike, he wears Nike boxers, Nike shoes and pays homage to Kobe and the LA Lakers, and he’s a fan of Jordan 23. So, I mean, it’s a huge opportunity for everyone.
Along with Nike and Adidas, Reigns has also been seen wearing Under Armor clothing. The Rock has also been occasionally seen wearing clothing from similar brands, both during his WWE appearances and outside of the company. Time will tell if more WWE stars decide to collaborate with brands because of the exposure many of these sponsors will receive thanks to “Raw’s” presence on Netflix.
If you use any of the quotes in this article, please credit “Off The Top” with ah/t to Wrestling Inc. for the transcription.
