Dave Mustaine Walked Out of Neck Surgery After Metallica Manager’s Insult
Dave Mustaine, Megadeth’s iconic frontman, revealed that he walked out of emergency neck surgery in 2011 after Metallica’s manager insulted him during the ‘Big Four’ tour featuring Metallica, Megadeth, Slayer, and Anthrax. The singer and guitarist discussed the incident on Steve-O’s Wild Ride podcast, detailing how he chose to play a high-profile concert at Yankee Stadium instead of undergoing surgery.
Mustaine, suffering from cervical stenosis, required spinal fusion to address years of wear from intense headbanging. While preparing for surgery, his manager relayed a comment from Metallica’s manager, calling Mustaine a “pussy” for prioritizing his health over the show. Offended and determined to prove his resilience, Mustaine demanded steroid injections and performed at the concert despite his condition. Remarkably, he stated that this decision did not negatively impact his recovery.
Reflecting on the ordeal, Mustaine expressed frustration over the disrespect, describing the comment as “gutless.” Despite the challenges, he noted, “Cycling through neck surgeries and injuries, I don’t plan on headbanging for another 30 years.” At 63, Mustaine anticipates playing for another decade, ending an already illustrious career with dignity.
This incident underscores Mustaine’s storied rivalry with Metallica, which dates back to his dismissal from the band in 1983 due to personal and professional conflicts. Despite his departure, he carved his legacy with Megadeth, securing his place among metal’s legends with over 50 million records sold globally.
Currently fronting Megadeth and collaborating with bassist James LoMenzo on new projects, Mustaine continues to defy the odds. His resilience extends beyond music; he has faced personal setbacks, including a violent home robbery in 2021 and legal disputes with former managers. Yet, his dedication to heavy metal remains unshaken.
Meanwhile, Metallica is extending its M72 tour into 2025, collaborating with Pantera and Limp Bizkit. Despite their shared history and occasional tensions, both bands persist as titans of the metal scene, captivating fans worldwide.
