Report: Tetsuya Naito Wanted A Lot More Money Than NJPW Were Willing To Pay Him

The reason for Tetsuya Naito's upcoming departure from New Japan Pro-Wrestling has been revealed.

According to Bryan Alvarez of the Wrestling Observer, the two sides were unable to agree on money during talks over a new contract, with the belief being Naito wanted a lot more money than New Japan were willing to pay him.

Alvarez wrote: "The impression I have gotten when it comes to Naito is simply that he wanted a lot more money than they were willing to pay him. Good chance this had been awhile in the making."

Naito had been working for NJPW as a freelancer since his contract expired earlier this year. The former IWGP World Heavyweight Champion informed New Japan on April 3 that he wanted to leave after the fourth round of contract negotiations. Talks continued until NJPW formally granted Naito's request to leave after NJPW President Hiroshi Tanahashi was unable to change Naito's mind.

Naito's pro wrestling future after he finishes up with NJPW at Wrestling Dontaku on May 4 is unclear. Fightful Select has reported, though, that it would be a surprise if Naito signs with All Elite Wrestling as the higher-ups in the promotion did not have interest in Naito outside of occasional appearances.

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