COAL CHAMBER bassist Mikey Cox says his latest cancer-related surgery, performed July 10, was "a massive success" and hopefully his last procedure in a health battle that has stretched back more than a year.
Cox was diagnosed with stage 3 cancer on April 1, 2025, and underwent five weeks of aggressive radiation therapy that dropped his weight to 152 pounds, followed by five months of chemotherapy administered through a PICC line. In January 2026, he underwent a 5.5-hour surgery to remove the remaining cancer, and pathology results later confirmed clear margins, effectively declaring him cancer-free. His most recent operation, on July 10, was a reconstructive procedure involving a temporary abdominal drain and repair of cut abdominal muscles.
"Surgery was a massive success and hopefully the last one," Cox said. "I now have to get my walking ability back and then get into all my PT," referring to the physical therapy he continues as he recovers strength, mobility and stamina. He has reported ongoing side effects including neuropathy in his feet and hands, joint pain and reduced energy levels.
Cox returned to performing in April 2026 at the Sick New World festival, his first live show in eight years, marking a milestone in his recovery and reuniting him with COAL CHAMBER on stage. He was subsequently forced to cancel a planned appearance at Louder Than Life 2026 to focus on surgery and recovery time.
The nu-metal band, known for late-'90s and early-2000s albums including its self-titled 1997 debut and "Chamber Music" (1999), has continued to draw on Cox's resilience as a rallying point for fans following his health journey. He has said he expects to make a full return to the band's live schedule within the coming months as his recovery progresses.