The recently reunited Black Sabbath have announced their intentions to continue on with their planned comeback tour and album without Bill Ward, just one day after the drummer threatened to not take part unless offered a “signable” contract that would properly financially reflect his contributions to the band’s history.

In other words, Ward wants more money and Sabbath aren’t going to give it to him.

“We were saddened to hear yesterday via Facebook that Bill declined publicly to participate in our current Black Sabbath plans,” reads a statement from the band’s three other members — Ozzy Osbourne, Tony Iommi and Geezer Butler — that was posted today on their Facebook page. “We have no choice but to continue recording without him although our door is always open … We are still in the U.K. with Tony. Writing and recording the new album and on a roll … See you at Download!!!”

The recording sessions for what would be this Sabbath lineup’s first album since 1978′s ‘Never Say Die!’ already were sidetracked once before when Iommi revealed last month that he had been diagnosed with lymphoma. Following that news, the band relocated their recording sessions to London so that Iommi could be close to his doctors for treatment, although apparently Ward has not been taking part in the sessions.

In his lengthy open letter to fans, Ward stated that he “would love nothing more than to be able to proceed with the Black Sabbath album and tour,” but is unable to continue unless presented with a “contract that reflects some dignity and respect toward [him] as an original member of the band.” He claims that he has been receiving the “cold shoulder” from Sabbath since refusing to sign and hopes that fans don’t hold him responsible if the reunion does not materialize as promised. “My position is not greed driven,” he insists.

Black Sabbath are scheduled to rock the final night of the 10th annual Download fest, which takes place June 8-10 at Donington Park, England.

Let the “Dave Grohl joining Sabbath” rumors start……now!

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