Sad news from Slayer camp.

Due to “reactionary concerns from other longtime participating sponsors,” legendary thrash metal band SLAYER has been pulled as the primary sponsor.

SLAYER signage has been removed from the car that was to be piloted by Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series veteran JJ Yeley.

Last week, SLAYER announced that it had joined Rick Ware Racing as the primary sponsor for the No. 54 entry at tomorrow’s Bristol Motor Speedway.

FOX Sports NASCAR reporter Bob Pockrass wrote:

“For those asking about the Rick Ware Racing SLAYER sponsor that was on the entry list, Rick told me that was the tentative plan but he ended up not doing the deal.”

When the SLAYER–Rick Ware Racing pairing was first announced, SLAYERbassist/vocalist Tom Araya said: “It’s exciting and awesome that Rick and the boys are wearing the SLAYER banner making us a part of NASCAR history!”

SLAYER guitarist Kerry King added: “NASCAR racing and SLAYER have a lot in common. Both are extremely fast, intense and aggressive. I can think of nothing more rad than seeing the SLAYER logo on Rick‘s car with JJ behind the wheel. I’m sure Disciples of everyone involved will be completely stoked on the bond between these two fierce entities.”