The battle of Guns N’ Roses: Why did Axl Rose call Slash a cancer?

The iconic hard rock band Guns N’ Roses is known not only for its explosive music but also for its equally volatile internal conflicts—none more infamous than the feud between frontman Axl Rose and lead guitarist Slash. Once creative partners responsible for some of rock’s most enduring hits, their relationship deteriorated dramatically in the 1990s. At the peak of their falling out, Axl Rose referred to Slash as a “cancer,” a statement that shocked fans and underscored the depth of their animosity.

The root of the feud lies in personal and professional differences. By the early ‘90s, tensions within the band were running high due to diverging musical directions, drug use, and control issues. Axl sought more control over the band’s sound and image, while Slash wanted to stay true to their original hard rock style. These clashes were intensified by legal disputes and Axl’s increasing domination of the band’s decisions.

When Slash left Guns N’ Roses in 1996, the breakup was far from amicable. In later interviews, Axl lashed out, saying Slash was “a cancer” that had to be removed for the band to survive. This harsh comparison reflected Axl’s belief that Slash’s presence was toxic to the future of Guns N’ Roses. He accused Slash of being disloyal, manipulating the band’s legacy, and disrespecting what Axl saw as the vision of Guns N’ Roses.

Slash, on the other hand, maintained a more restrained public stance, often expressing disappointment but rarely retaliating with personal attacks. For years, the two didn’t speak, and the band moved forward with a new lineup under Axl’s control.

Despite the bitterness, time eventually healed some wounds. In 2016, Slash and Axl reconciled, reuniting for the massively successful Not in This Lifetime… tour. While the reasons behind the “cancer” comment highlight the intensity of their rift, the eventual reunion showed that even deep scars can heal when mutual respect and shared history outweigh past grievances.