Iron Maiden Named to Rock Hall as Megadeth Hints at Final Tour

Iron Maiden inducted into Rock Hall; Megadeth hints at final tour

English heavy metal band Iron Maiden has been named to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, with their induction ceremony scheduled for November 14 in Los Angeles. The band is currently in the middle of their "50th Anniversary Run For Your Lives Tour," though they will be touring in Australia when the ceremony takes place.

Megadeth frontman Dave Mustaine told audiences during a recent show that the tour will likely be the band’s last. The statement comes shortly after the release of their chart-topping album, Megadeth, in January. Mustaine, who has previously overcome throat cancer and other health issues, framed the decision as a potential close to a 43-year career that spans twenty-three albums.

The announcement highlights a significant moment for the thrash metal genre. While the band has not issued a formal statement confirming a permanent disbandment, the "last tour" declaration suggests a definitive shift in the group’s active status. This type of retirement announcement often alters market dynamics, potentially boosting demand for premium tickets in the short term and driving sales of back-catalog material for record labels in the long term.

A milestone for Chicago’s Riot Fest

Beyond the headlining acts, the summer music season included a robust lineup at Riot Fest in Chicago. The three-day event at Douglass Park featured 102 punk rock acts across five stages.

Notable performances on the opening day included Grammy-winning duo Twenty One Pilots, who played songs such as "Stressed Out" and "Tear in My Heart." The festival also hosted Alkaline Trio, Rise Against, and The All-American Rejects. Iggy Pop, who began his musical career six decades ago, performed with the Stooges, while Violet Grohl played tracks from her debut album, Be Sweet to Me.

The event also featured The Sex Pistols, including new member Frank Carter, who performed classics like "God Save the Queen" and "Anarchy in the U.K." The Bronx appeared under their alter ego, Mariachi El Bronx, as part of their "You Ése Tour '26."

What to watch next

Attention now turns to the November 14 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction in Los Angeles. For Megadeth, the key development will be any official confirmation regarding their future status. A formal press release from the band would clarify whether the recent tour marks a permanent hiatus or if health factors allow for a potential return. Conversely, the announcement of a new studio album would invalidate the "last tour" narrative and signal a continuation of their career.