Shifter Knob Removal Situation

Thanks. It's a '70, mint original wood grain knob. I'm thinking I'll just drill a hole or so in the button to break it apart. Then I can lift off the knob and have access to the stud so I can clean off the 'remains' of the button. First I'll order a reproduction button to have in hand for when I put it back together. I'm guessing whoever put it together 20 some years ago over tightened the button so it's now 'one' with the cable stud. Definitely don't want to break the cable. Maybe on reassembly I'll put of dab of anti-seize on the stud then to be safe for the future.