THE BEAST

Thrash metal legends Megadeth have officially confirmed that their next studio album will be the final Megadeth album of frontman Dave Mustaine’s career. The announcement comes alongside plans for a global farewell tour in 2026 , sending shockwaves through the metal community and the band’s worldwide Cyber Army . Fans can also expect a new memoir from Dave Mustaine next year, promising insights into over four decades of metal domination.

In a social post shared via the band’s iconic mascot, Vic Rattlehead , Mustaine addressed fans directly:

"Most musicians don’t get to go out on their own terms on top, and that’s where I’m at. We’ve made millions of fans, traveled the world, and now it’s time to say goodbye—but in style."

The accompanying video on Megadeth’s YouTube channel and social media shows Vic Rattlehead behind a desk with a “Confidential 2026” file, declaring:

"Forty years of metal, forged in steel, ending in fire… the next Megadeth album will be the last. Prepare yourself, Cyber Army. Stay loud, stay tuned, and meet me on the frontlines."

Fans can look forward to the final Megadeth album, set for release via Dave Mustaine’s Tradecraft imprint in partnership with the Frontiers Label Group’s BLKIIBLK . The LP is produced by Chris Rakestraw , who previously worked on Megadeth’s critically acclaimed albums “The Sick, The Dying… And The Dead!” (2022) and “Dystopia” (2016).

Teemu Mäntysaari , who joined Megadeth two years ago, will handle lead guitar duties following Kiko Loureiro’s departure. Mäntysaari, known for his work with WINTERSUN and SMACKBOUND , completes the current lineup alongside drummer Dirk Verbeuren and bassist James LoMenzo .

Megadeth’s legacy in thrash metal is unmatched. From their 1985 debut “Killing Is My Business… And Business Is Good!” to classics like “Holy Wars… The Punishment Due” and “Hangar 18” on Rust In Peace (1990), Megadeth has influenced generations of guitarists and metal fans. With eight top 10 Billboard 200 albums , Megadeth helped define the “Big Four” of thrash metal alongside Metallica, Slayer, and Anthrax.

Dave Mustaine closed his announcement with a heartfelt message for fans:

"Don’t be mad, don’t be sad, be happy for us all. We’ve done something truly wonderful, something that will probably never happen again. Let’s celebrate these next few years together."

Metalheads worldwide can now start the countdown to Megadeth’s farewell tour 2026 , a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness the final chapter of one of thrash metal’s most iconic bands.