Scott Ian: Lars Ulrich Was Almost Fired From Metallica

Scott Ian has told of how Metallica came close to sacking drummer Lars Ulrich shortly before the tragic death of Cliff Burton.

The Anthrax guitarist claims that the other members of Metallica told him of their plans to fire Ulrich, while the two bands were on tour together in 1986 for the European leg of the Damage, Inc. tour.

Ian said: "We were all kind of blown away by that, because it was the four of them. It was just, like, ‘Wow! Really?’ And they were, like, ‘Yeah. When we finish this tour, we’re gonna find a new drummer.'”

"Obviously, history turned out differently for Metallica," he continued "and they went on to become, arguably, one of the biggest bands on the planet. So I’m just glad it all… obviously it all worked out for my friends. It was a horrible tragedy that Cliff was killed in that bus accident."

Ian has however stated that he does not believe Lars would have been sacked, even if the tragedy hadn't occured, adding: "I honestly think it wouldn’t have happened. ‘Cause, believe me, I’ve thought about it quite a bit over the years. I honestly think that the tour would have finished and I think cooler heads would have prevailed, maybe, and I don’t think the change would have taken place. That’s what I believe."

Metallica recently released a new song 'Lords Of Summer' and are set re-enter the studio to record a new album soon.