NFL, celebrity boxing, and hot dogs: Netflix’s push into live TV

After moving from DVD rentals to all-digital streaming more than a decade ago, Netflix is making its next big transformation: it’s also becoming a hub for live content. The streamer’s foray into livestreams started with a Chris Rock comedy special and a rocky Love is Blind reunion, then quickly jumped into live sports streaming with a golf tournament that paired professional golfers with Formula 1 drivers. Netflix’s livestreams have only gotten bigger since then, with a hot dog eating contest between storied rivals Joey Chestnut and Takeru Kobayashi. On November 15th, 2024, a live boxing match between Mike Tyson and Jake Paul raked in 108 million average viewers, making it “the most-streamed sporting event ever,” according to Netflix. However, widespread streaming issues persisted throughout the event, leaving fans wondering whether Netflix is equipped to handle future livestreams, including two NFL Christmas Day games and WWE’s Monday Night Raw. Read on for all the latest on Netflix’s dive into livestreaming.