On the December 9 episode of SiriusXM’s Trunk Nation With Eddie Trunk, FOZZY frontman and wrestling icon Chris Jericho shared his thoughts on IRON MAIDEN drummer Nicko McBrain’s decision to retire from live performances with the legendary metal band. Reflecting on the announcement, Chris recalled a recent encounter with Nicko in Minneapolis: “We saw Nicko about a month ago. I asked how he was doing, and he mentioned having trouble with 16th notes. But he’s still Nicko — the funniest, kindest guy you’ll ever meet. He told me before, ‘When I’m ready to stop, I want the band to keep going. And that time is coming soon.'”
Jericho noted how seamlessly MAIDEN handled the transition: “They didn’t give fans time to dwell on it. They announced his retirement the same day as his final show, and by the next day, they introduced Simon Dawson as the new drummer. No farewell tour, no extended goodbyes. It’s very MAIDEN — efficient and focused.” He added, “Nicko is one of rock’s most influential drummers and genuinely one of the nicest people you could meet. He’s earned the right to step back, and replacing him won’t be easy.”
Addressing McBrain’s statement that he would remain involved in IRON MAIDEN projects and personal ventures, Jericho speculated on the possibility of Nicko playing on future studio albums. “The door’s still open,” Chris said. “Nicko is staying connected with the band and their management. Maybe he’ll contribute to a song or two, but I wouldn’t count on it soon. MAIDEN isn’t planning a new record right away, and stepping back from that demanding schedule might mean he’s ready to move on.”
Nicko’s final performance with IRON MAIDEN took place at Allianz Parque in São Paulo, Brazil, on December 7, marking the conclusion of the band’s The Future Past world tour, which started in May 2023. His replacement, Simon Dawson, a longtime collaborator of bassist Steve Harris in BRITISH LION, was officially announced the following day.
At 72 years old, Nicko McBrain has faced significant health challenges in recent years. He suffered a stroke in January 2023 that left him partially paralyzed, a condition he revealed publicly in August. Four years earlier, he had been diagnosed with stage 1 laryngeal cancer, which was successfully treated shortly after diagnosis. Despite these struggles, McBrain’s legacy as one of heavy metal’s most iconic drummers remains firmly intact.
IRON MAIDEN is set to embark on the Run For Your Lives world tour in 2025, continuing their journey with a new chapter while honoring the contributions of a legend.
