Sometimes, one needs to give up on what they love the most when health problems become serious. Sadly, the case was the same for Mick Mars, who had to retire from touring with Mötley Crüe. However, Rudy Sarzo believes that the guitarist is at peace now that John 5 has filled in for him, as he revealed during a recent appearance on Talkin’ Rock With Meltdown.
Since he was 17, Mick Mars has been struggling with ankylosing spondylitis, which causes him to have chronic pain and immobility. Although the disease affected his movement and eventually resulted in scoliosis, Mars didn’t let this become an issue between him and Crüe. However, it no longer allows him to continue performing with the band.
In October 2022, Mötley Crüe announced that Mick Mars would still be a member, but he couldn’t continue touring with the band. There were rumors about John 5 replacing him, and it didn’t take long to see that they were true. A day later, Mötley Crüe issued a statement, saying John 5 would replace Mars.
This was a flattering opportunity for John 5 as he has been a huge fan of the band. Besides, Nikki Sixx believes he adapted so well to Crüe. Apart from Ryan Roxie, who argued John 5 could continue Mick’s legacy, Rudy Sarzo also believes the guitarist is the best choice, and Mick is at peace with the band’s decision.
Here is what Rudy Sarzo said about Crüe’s decision to work with John 5:
“Of course, with all due respect to Mick, you know, Mick is a family member of Mötley Crüe, but making the decision because of his health… We’re all aware of that; it’s about his health. So, it’s a health decision. Also, I know Nikki. You know, Mötley Crüe is like oxygen for him. So, I am glad that Mick is at peace with his decision, which means that there is a piece of the puzzle missing. And the piece of the puzzle happens to be John 5.
I couldn’t think of a better living guitar player than John 5 to come in and be a member of Mötley Crüe because one thing about Johnny is that Johnny’s always been a fan. I know he’s a huge fan of Mötley Crüe. So, it’s nothing better than having somebody who is not doing it for the money but doing it because they think this is the best gig or band they’ve ever been in.”
So, Rudy Sarzo thinks Mick Mars has no issue with John 5 filling in for him because the guitarist fits in the band well. He also believes that John 5 is the best choice because he has always been a Mötley Crüe fan who can work with them not for money but out of his admiration.
