In a recent interview with The Austin Chronicle, Zakk Wylde was asked about a possible Pantera reunion. Although he did state that the group would eventually have some sort of reunion, he firmly stated that no one can replace “Dimebag” Darrell.

The group broke up in 2004 after Dimebag was shot and killed during a performance in Columbus, Ohio. When questions arose about the state of Pantera and who could possibly replace Dimebag. Wylde was suggested.

Throughout the interview, Wylde made it clear that any projects with Pantera will be completed with the sole purpose of celebrating their music and the success of the band with Dimebag. Wylde explained how he feels using an analogy, “Whenever anyone asks me about the Pantera thing, it’s like Noel Redding and Mitch Mitchell asking Eric Clapton if he would get together and celebrate Jimi and his greatness. Why would Eric Clapton say no? He’s one of Jimi’s friends. As far as I’m concerned, it’s a beautiful thing. You’ve got Eric Clapton up there, jamming with Mitch and Noel, singing all of Jimi’s songs and playing all of Jimi’s licks, because this is his buddy and he loves him.”

Former Pantera drummer, Vinnie Paul Abbott holds the same beliefs as Wylde. In a statement he argues that a reunion can only be of the original members and all the Pantera members want to keep Dimebag’s legacy intact.

More information about Dimebag Darrell’s death can be found here. Additionally, a similar interview with Vinnie Paul can be found here.