What was originally called an amicable split looks to have been anything but as former Mötley Crüe drummer Tommy Lee and Crüe frontman Vince Neil have been sparring in the press.

In the January 20 edition of "Rolling Stone," Lee tells the mag that he hasn't spoken with his former Crüe-mates since he left the band in April. Lee goes on to tell a story in which he claims that Neil "sucker punched" him in the Las Vegas airport during the band's tour behind its "Greatest Hits" album. Lee charges that Neil was "doing his usual daily drunk-guy thing" when he punched the drummer in the face.

The singer had his say on the topic in Monday's "New York Post," telling the paper that Lee "sounds confused and a bit hypocritical." Neil went on to slag Lee and his current Methods Of Mayhem project, telling the "Post," "Dreadlocks and artists like Lil' Kim and Snoop Dogg in your video don't make you an urban or alternative act."

The barbs are a far cry from

the good vibes that abounded when Lee left the band in April. At the time, Crüe bassist Nikki Sixx said in a written statement, "We support Tommy in his decision to take some time off from touring and trust he will enjoy success in whatever he sets out to accomplish."