Who is the better Metallica bassist – Jason Newsted or Robert Trujillo? That’s the debate at the center of this week’s Chuck’s Fight Club on the Loudwire Nights radio show.

First off, let’s address the elephant in the room. For those of you screaming Cliff Burton, there’s no doubt that most Metallica fans would rank him as the best overall. His style and playing had an impact on both musicians that followed him in the bass slot for the band and he’s revered by them as well. But for this matchup we’re looking at a debate of which of Metallica’s two living bassists reigns supreme.

Newsted took over for Burton in 1986 and remained with the group through 2001. Over that time period, he played on And Justice for All, the self-titled black album, Load, Reload and S&M albums.

Though he joined Metallica on the St. Anger album cycle, Robert Trujillo’s first recording with the group came with 2008’s Death Magnetic. He’s been with the group through Lulu, Hardwired …. to Self-Destruct, S&M2 and 72 Seasons.

As with all Chuck’s Fight Club battles, Loudwire Nights host Chuck Armstrong will introduce this week’s “fight” on the Monday airing at 8PM. Arguments will be made for each individually on Tuesday and Wednesday’s shows at 8PM and you’ll have the full week to rank each bassist using the voting platform at the bottom of this post. The winning bassist will be featured in a rock block airing at 8PM during the Friday Loudwire Nights show.

READ MORE: Metallica Albums Ranked

Just this reminder, Loudwire Nights with Chuck Armstrong airs nightly starting at 7PM ET. You can tune in anytime, from anywhere right here or by downloading the Loudwire app.

Top 66 Rock + Metal Bassists of All Time

Counting down the very best bassists in rock and metal history.

Gallery Credit: Loudwire Staff

5301