Add as a preferred source on Google The UK government has announced a major change that could directly affect how younger fans in the country watch wrestling starting in 2027.
Under the new policy introduced by Prime Minister Keir Starmer, users under 16 would no longer be allowed to access social media platforms considered high-risk. The list includes YouTube, TikTok, Snapchat, Instagram, Facebook, and X.
That means WWE broadcasts that stream for free on YouTube outside the United States could be affected for that audience. The clearest example is Saturday Night’s Main Event, which typically airs on Peacock in the United States and on YouTube across many international markets.
AAA events and episodes, now directly tied to WWE, also factor into the discussion. The Mexican promotion’s programming has been airing on YouTube and Facebook outside Latin America, including in the United Kingdom.
The change will not take effect immediately. The British government plans to implement the new rules only in spring 2027, after age-verification mechanisms are finalized.
RAW, SmackDown, and NXT are not expected to be directly affected by the measure, as WWE’s weekly programming in the United Kingdom is centered on Netflix, which was not included on the list of social media platforms covered by the ban.
However, 16- and 17-year-olds could also face restrictions. The government is considering measures such as automatic blocks on livestreams, communication with strangers, and possible limits on late-night usage.
It remains unclear how WWE, YouTube, and other platforms will adapt their broadcasts to comply with the new UK rules. However, if the policy moves forward as announced, WWE will have to deal with a real impact on part of its younger international audience.