I think there's something else going on with New Japan, not financial related.
I'm aware New Japan does a lot of kayfabe interviews, but with several recent departures and upcoming ones, it seems like the higher ups in New Japan aren't well liked (bar Tana) in the company.
Naito left because he wasn't allowed more dates because of his ability which I agree with 100%, but it's the first of many incidents.
Okada and Hiromu both left or are rumored to leave the company and have commented on the distance between them and the competitors in contrast to Tony Khan.
EVIL and SANADA are uncertain. EVIL might want to be closer to Iyo yeah, but SANADA is an odd one. Does he have issues with New Japan overworking him when he was injured or was that just himself?
Many wrestlers have also commented on Moxley and Takeshita being world champions whilst not being primarily NJPW. I do think most of this is played up for kayfabe given the relationship is healthy, but it's been repeated a lot.
Another thing I'm interested in is that Naito, BUSHI and seemingly SANADA and Hiromu didn't get outside interest from AEW or WWE. They did their own freelance stuff.
Idk, food for thought.
by Urass007