I believe his need to have control ultimately trumps his desire to maintain his lifestyle and grab the cash.  That is why he hasn't buckled on a reunion.

But cash only runs a very close second.  That's why if you believe Axl, then Azoff and a couple of others have really tried to hurt him financially to the point where that desire for cash is elevated above his need for control, i.e. force him financially to have to reunite.

I don't blame Axl for touring for cash.  Shit, the reason I get out of bed on a week day and head off to work is sure as hell for the cash. I would rather head down to the beach every day, have a swim, perve at some chicks then head to the pub for lunch.  The minute I can find something that pays me as well or more than my current business and I enjoy doing more, I'm outta here! 

That said I hear what some of the other points people are trying to make.  I know the shows are kick ass, I had a good time at the show I went to in 2010 and also went to 3 shows in 2007?  I would go again tomorrow too. But if this really isn't heading anywhere I would rather see the original guys performing the nostalgia tour, since it's their music.  I don't want the cheap Chinese copy of the original

I also agree with Monkey, the music is what will live on utlimately long after they have all retired and/or died.    Sadly I see the zillonth "Chinese Democracy World Tour" as a complete waste of artistic talent and time.  I want to get as much material out of them as we can because you never know when the music will stop.