THE BEAST

Wayne Lozinak, longtime guitarist for hardcore/metal veterans HATEBREED, has exited the band's European tour after being diagnosed with a noncancerous brain tumor.

The band shared the news in a heartfelt message posted on social media earlier today, stating:
"Send Wayne Lozinak some love!"

On the evening of June 14, while performing at the Download Festival in the UK, Lozinak began experiencing mild symptoms that initially raised concerns of a possible stroke. Out of caution, he sought medical attention upon the band's arrival in Lille, France the following day. After a CT scan at a local emergency room, doctors discovered a brain tumor, prompting immediate admission for further evaluation.

A subsequent 24-hour assessment, including an MRI, identified the mass as a benign meningioma—a slow-growing, noncancerous tumor likely present for years. Though serious, the diagnosis is considered one of the best-case scenarios under such circumstances.

HATEBREED emphasized their relief and shared optimism for Wayne’s recovery:

"Wayne will be returning to the U.S. to prepare for surgery and focus on rest and recovery. His strength and resilience remain unwavering, and he is determined to return to HATEBREED as soon as he is able. We appreciate all the love and support from fans, friends, and the music community during this time."

Touring duties will be covered in Wayne’s absence, with Matt Bachand stepping in on guitar and Karl Buechner (First Blood) now handling bass.

Despite this unexpected setback, HATEBREED remains focused on the road ahead, with their highly anticipated resurrection of the Summer Slaughter Tour set to begin July 8 in St. Petersburg, Florida, and run through July 28 in Grand Rapids, Michigan. This year's stacked lineup features FUGITIVE, GRIDIRON, MALEVOLENCE, INCITE, ESCUELA GRIND, and SNUFFED ON SIGHT on select dates.

The band recently wrapped up a 30th-anniversary North American tour last fall, supported by CARCASS, HARMS WAY, and CRYPTA. With over 1.5 million albums sold in North America alone and a reputation forged in sweat-soaked pits and festival stages worldwide, HATEBREED continues to thrive. Their song “Looking Down the Barrel of Today” recently surpassed 75 million Spotify streams, becoming their most-streamed track of the digital era.

As Wayne embarks on the road to recovery, the metal and hardcore community rallies behind him, echoing the band’s request:
“Send @waynelozinak some love.”