WWE Saturday Night's Main Event makes its triumphant return this weekend, marking the first live special of 2026 for the global wrestling powerhouse. The iconic event, originally revived in December 2024 after its 1980s heyday, continues as a series of regular specials that offer unique viewing arrangements for international audiences.
When and How to Watch in the UK
For fans across the United Kingdom, WWE Saturday Night's Main Event will air on Saturday, January 24, 2026. The special television broadcast is scheduled to begin at 1am UK time, providing late-night entertainment for dedicated wrestling enthusiasts.
Unlike regular WWE programming available through Netflix in the UK, this particular event follows a different distribution model. UK viewers can access the show completely free of charge through YouTube, either via live stream as it happens or on demand afterward. The streaming platform offers full flexibility for fans to catch all the action without any subscription fees.
Why Netflix Isn't Showing This Event
This situation might surprise some UK wrestling fans who have grown accustomed to accessing WWE content through their Netflix subscriptions. Since WWE's partnership with Netflix began at the start of 2025, subscribers have enjoyed weekly live streams of Raw, SmackDown, and NXT programming, along with premium monthly events like Royal Rumble and WrestleMania at no additional cost.
However, Saturday Night's Main Event operates under different broadcasting rights in the United States, where it airs exclusively on Peacock. This rights arrangement creates the unique circumstance where international audiences, including those in the UK, can watch these specials for free on YouTube instead.
Exciting Match Card Highlights
This weekend's event promises significant developments in WWE storylines, serving as the final major stop before next week's Royal Rumble. The match card features several compelling contests that will shape championship pictures moving forward.
Key Matches to Watch
- #1 Contenders Match for WWE Title: Randy Orton vs. Trick Williams vs. Damian Priest vs. Sami Zayn
- Women's Tag Team Championships: Rhiyo (c) vs. The Judgment Day
- Grudge Match: Cody Rhodes vs. Jacob Fatu
The four-way contenders match carries particular significance, as the winner will earn the first championship opportunity against current WWE Champion Drew McIntyre. This creates intriguing possibilities for the Royal Rumble event and beyond.
WWE Championship Picture Analysis
Drew McIntyre currently reigns as WWE Champion after dethroning Cody Rhodes on SmackDown. The Scottish Warrior's championship run represents a career highlight for the veteran performer, and his first title defense will be crucial for maintaining momentum.
Each potential challenger brings unique qualities to the championship equation. Randy Orton offers veteran credibility as a future Hall of Famer who could provide McIntyre with a convincing victory to establish his reign. Damian Priest presents familiar opposition, though their previous encounters might not generate fresh excitement at this moment.
Sami Zayn continues his beloved underdog journey toward eventual championship glory, but a title shot now might be premature. Meanwhile, Trick Williams has made an immediate impact on the main roster following his NXT success, with fans embracing him as a top-tier talent. A strong showing against McIntyre could further legitimize Williams' rapid ascent without requiring an immediate championship victory.
This Saturday Night's Main Event special stands as a significant standalone event while simultaneously building anticipation for the Royal Rumble. UK fans have the advantage of free access through YouTube, ensuring nobody misses this important chapter in WWE's 2026 programming.
