Nikki Sixx has publicly accused former Mötley Crüe guitarist Mick Mars of lying to fans and attempting to damage the band. He shared his allegations in a statement posted on X / @NikkiSixx.
The bassist’s statement referenced a recent Los Angeles Times article. It focused on what he described as Mars’ betrayal of both the band and their fans.
“Read this LA Times article and find out how Mick Mars lied to you to try to hurt the band,” Sixx said. “Why would he betray you and us? Money?”
Sixx continued his criticism by referencing legal proceedings between Mars and the band.
“Wow—Read it and find out what happened to him and his dirty lawyers in arbitration,” he continued. “I’m actually ashamed of him. So should you be too—More to be revealed soon.”
The statement references a Los Angeles Times article covering the ongoing legal dispute between Mars and his former bandmates. Sixx has promised additional revelations in the near future.
The conflict stems from Mars’ retirement from touring in 2022 due to health issues and the subsequent legal battle over his financial stake in the band. The Los Angeles Times reported that Mars filed suit alleging the band tried to oust him as a stakeholder and diminish his financial rights. This included a proposed severance slashing his touring profits from 25% to 5%, then eventually zero, while still allowing the band indefinite use of his name and likeness.
Mars’ attorneys described the separation offer as “horrifically unfair and one-sided” in court documents. The guitarist maintains that his announcement of inability to tour due to health reasons should not affect his shareholder status in the band. Blabbermouth noted that Sixx responded to Mars’ allegation that the band does not play live, calling it a betrayal to the band “who saved his life.”
The band counters that Mars was unable to perform fully on tour, citing mistakes during concerts as evidence of his diminished capacity. However, Mars disputes these claims. He argues that he had already announced his retirement from touring before the legal dispute began. Court documents revealed that the legal case has been assigned to Judge James C. Chalfant, with a trial-setting conference scheduled.
The dispute highlights the complex financial and personal relationships within one of rock’s most enduring bands. Mars had been with Mötley Crüe since its formation in 1981, contributing to their rise as one of the most successful heavy metal acts of the 1980s and beyond.
