According to The Wrestling Observer, TNA’s decision to release Sanada was due to a “political crossfire” between TNA and Wrestle-1. The two sides had a talent exchange going on, but when Wrestle-1 fell on hard financial times, the promotion was unable to continue booking TNA talents. Another factor was the November Sumo Hall event, which did not do well, so that coupled with Wrestle-1’s inability to book TNA talent is what lead to TNA releasing Sanada.