Ross Friedman, better known as Ross The Boss, the founding guitarist of heavy metal legends MANOWAR, has revealed that he has been diagnosed with ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis), commonly known as Lou Gehrig's disease. The announcement was made on February 9, 2026, sending shockwaves through the metal community.
ALS is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, leading to loss of muscle control. There is currently no cure for the condition, making the diagnosis a devastating blow for the 71-year-old guitarist and his fans worldwide.
Friedman co-founded MANOWAR in 1980, helping to create one of the most iconic and bombastic bands in heavy metal history. His guitar work on classic albums like "Battle Hymns," "Into Glory Ride," and "Hail to England" established the template for epic, true heavy metal. He departed MANOWAR in 1988 but left an indelible mark on the band's legacy and the genre as a whole.
Beyond MANOWAR, Friedman was a key figure in the proto-punk and punk rock movement as a member of THE DICTATORS, a band that helped lay the groundwork for the New York punk scene in the 1970s. His versatility across genres demonstrated a musicianship that transcended any single style.
In more recent years, Friedman has led his own band, ROSS THE BOSS, which has been performing classic MANOWAR material alongside original compositions. The project allowed fans to experience the songs that defined an era of heavy metal, performed by the man who helped write them.
The metal community has rallied around Friedman since the announcement, with messages of support flooding in from fans and fellow musicians. His contributions to heavy metal remain timeless, and his fighting spirit continues to inspire.