Tetsuya Naito has officially wrapped up his time in New Japan Pro-Wrestlingand money appears to be the reason for his exit.
After NJPW confirmed on April 16 that Naito would not be renewing his contract, the longtime Los Ingobernables de Japon leader wrestled his final match at Wrestling Dontaku on May 4, 2025. The bout took place in Fukuoka, Japan, where Naito teamed with Hiromu Takahashi, Shingo Takagi, and fellow departing star BUSHI to defeat the team of Taichi, TAKA Michinoku, Shota Umino, and Tomohiro Ishii.
Following the win, fans were treated to one last celebration from the full LIJ lineup as Naitos entrance theme played throughout the arena. The crowd cheered loudly as Naito took in the moment, signaling the end of a historic era for both NJPW and LIJ.
So why did the former IWGP World Heavyweight Champion walk away? According to Bryan Alvarez of Wrestling Observer Radio, it all came down to money. 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, Alvarez noted. Good chance this had been awhile in the making.
As for whats next, Naitos future remains unclear. He has reportedly shown no serious interest in signing with AEW or WWE, despite speculation surrounding his free-agent status. Wherever he lands, fans know he leaves behind one of the most decorated resumes in NJPW history.
Naitos run with New Japan defined a generation, and his farewell couldnt have come at a more emotional time for the promotion. For now, hes a top-tier free agent with no immediate landing spotwhich only adds to the mystery.
Do you think Naito will surprise everyone with a jump to WWE or AEW after all? Please share your thoughts and feedback in the comment section below.
