Combat Records, one of the most influential heavy metal labels of the 1980s, is making a major comeback in 2026. After over four decades of shaping the thrash and punk scene, the iconic U.S. label has been relaunched under the new ownership of Robert Dujmusic, former head of Eternal Sound Records and independent movie producer Alex Stojak.
Founded in New York City in 1982, Combat Records quickly became synonymous with heavy music innovation. The label helped introduce American audiences to global metal acts like Venom, Slayer, Kreator and Celtic Frost, while fostering homegrown legends such as Megadeth, Exodus, Nuclear Assault and Circle Jerks.
Its releases were milestones in the thrash metal movement, with Megadeth’s 1985 debut, Killing Is My Business… and Business Is Good!, selling over 200,000 copies and cementing Combat’s status as a thrash powerhouse.
Combat’s history has been a rollercoaster. After several ownership changes, including a stint under Relativity Records and Koch Records, the label went dormant in the mid-2000s, with its catalog largely absorbed by Sony.
A brief revival occurred in 2016 when Megadeth bassist David Ellefson and Thom Hazaert of EMP Label Group worked to reacquire Combat’s intellectual property, bringing the brand back under EMP.
Now, Dujmusic and Stojak are steering Combat Records from its new headquarters in Göttingen, Germany. The relaunch goes beyond mere branding; the label has expanded into distribution, public relations, festival production, and touring. Its first wave of 2026 releases will include both established heavy hitters and emerging artists, signaling a commitment to both legacy and innovation.
“It is the honor of a lifetime to be able to continue the legacy of such an important part of heavy music history, and I’m super excited for what we’ve got coming up. Combat is back!” Dujmusic said in a press statement, according to Blabbermouth. Ellefson added, “It’s good to know that the Combat Records brand has landed into the right hands and will continue to thrive with Christian and Rob at the helm.”
The relaunch also introduces key figures supporting the label’s growth. Nicole Wendeborn, former partner at Eternal Sound Records, is stepping in as A&R manager, while Christian “Opus” Lawrence, former drummer for Cro-Mags and current drummer for Dead By Wednesday and Tantric, will manage U.S. operations.
Historically, Combat Records was known not only for its chart-topping releases but also for its innovative physical releases. Fans still remember Combat’s camo-themed labels, glow-in-the-dark vinyl, picture discs and legendary live compilations such as Combat Tour Live: The Ultimate Revenge (1985), featuring Exodus, Venom and Slayer.
With its official website and social media channels set to launch soon, fans can expect regular updates on new releases, tours and exclusive content from one of heavy music’s most storied institutions. As Combat Records steps back into the spotlight, it’s clear that the thrash and punk community has much to celebrate.
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