Metal history is about to turn its last Megadeth-shaped page. Today (August 14), Dave Mustaine took to social media—via his trusty alter ego Vic Rattlehead—to deliver the news: the upcoming Megadeth record, slated for early 2026, will be the **final studio album** of his legendary, four-decade career. And when that record drops, the thrash icons will hit the road for a global farewell tour kicking off the same year.

In his statement, Mustaine reflected on ending Megadeth on his own terms:

“Most musicians don’t get to go out on top. I’ve traveled the world, made millions of fans, and the hardest part is saying goodbye. If there was ever a perfect time to release a new album and tour the world, it’s now. Don’t be mad or sad—come celebrate with us.”

2026 will also bring the release of Mustaine’s new memoir, with more details to follow in the coming months. The final album will arrive via Mustaine’s Tradecraft imprint in partnership with BLKIIBLK (Frontiers Label Group), with the first single and pre-orders launching this fall.

Megadeth’s legacy speaks for itself—50 million records sold, a GRAMMY® win, a thrash revolution that reshaped metal guitar forever, and a catalog of era-defining records from *Peace Sells… But Who’s Buying?* to *Rust in Peace* and *Countdown to Extinction*. Now, Mustaine and crew are preparing to give fans one last seismic dose of riffs, speed, and fury before taking their final bow.

Initial farewell tour dates will be revealed later this year. Until then, sharpen your axes—Megadeth’s endgame has begun.