Short-lived Anthrax vocalist Dan Nelson (ex-Devilsize) has filed a defamation of character laswuit for $2.65 million against his former bandmates.

Anthrax announced Nelson as their new vocalist on Dec. 10, 2007 after the departure of John Bush. On July 21, 2009, they stated Nelson had become ill and could no longer continue in the band. In more recent interviews, Anthrax have said Nelson was fired because of personal and professional reasons.

In the suit, filed yesterday, Nelson insists that the band’s “intentional defamation” hurt his reputation and prevented him from earning money, reported the New York Post. The singer also asserts that he co-wrote songs on Anthrax’s newest album ‘Worship Music,’ but wasn’t paid for his efforts and that drummer Charlie Benante called him a “bully.”

The band has not yet commented on the lawsuit. Anthrax, with singer Joey Belladonna back in the fold, recently played Big 4 thrash shows with Metallica, Slayer and Megadeth, including a memorable performance at Yankee Stadium. Anthrax are currently touring the U.S. with Testament and Death Angel, two other major bands from the ’80s thrash scene.

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