In an open letter released on GN'R's official web site on Wednesday, Rose wrote that after listening to fans and reading "various public comments and jabs from former members" of the band, as well as assorted press coverage, he has decided to "respectfully decline [his] induction as a member of GUNS N' ROSES to the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame." He added, "I strongly request that I not be inducted in absentia and please know that no one is authorized nor may anyone be permitted to accept any induction for me or speak on my behalf."

"We are sorry Axl will not be able to accept his induction in person," Lauren Bishop, a spokeswoman for the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame, said in a statement.

Rose closed his letter saying, "as ironic as it may seem, I'd like to sincerely thank the board for their nomination and their votes for GUNS' induction."

According to the Rock Hall, only the SEX PISTOLS have declined induction before.

A Rock Hall spokesperson confirmed with Billboard that GREEN DAY is still scheduled to introduce GUNS N' ROSES into the Hall's ranks.

The 27th annual Hall Of Fame ceremony will be held on April 14. In addition to GUNS N' ROSES, other artists being inducted include the RED HOT CHILI PEPPERS, the BEASTIE BOYS, the FACES/SMALL FACES, DONOVAN and LAURA NYRO.

The ceremony will be taped for broadcast by HBO, which plans to air it at 9 p.m. EST/PST on May 5.