BREAKING: The highly anticipated anniversary tour for the iconic rock band Poison is officially off the table, primarily due to frontman Bret Michaels‘ exorbitant contract demands. The proposed tour, intended to celebrate the band’s 40th anniversary in 2026, has been derailed as Michaels reportedly sought to secure a staggering 600% more in compensation than his fellow band members.
In an exclusive interview with Page Six, drummer Rikki Rockett revealed that he, guitarist C.C. DeVille, and bassist Bobby Dall were fully committed to the tour, expressing their disappointment at the breakdown in negotiations. “We had a great offer, I thought. But we left the table,” Rockett stated. “It didn’t work.”
The conflict appears to stem from a significant disparity in pay, with Rockett claiming, “He wanted the lion’s share of the money, to the point where it makes it not possible to even do it. It’s like $6 to every one of our dollars. You just can’t work that way.”
Despite the setback, Rockett emphasized that there is no animosity towards Michaels. “Every member of this band has given me so much privilege in life,” he said, likening the situation to “hating your parents.” He further ruled out the possibility of the band touring with a different lead vocalist, stating, “It’s not out of the question. But doing that is like surgery. It’s the last resort.”
Michaels had previously hinted at the potential for the tour, describing it as a “perfect” opportunity to reconnect with fans and celebrate their debut album, Look What the Cat Dragged In. However, the tour was never formally announced, and Michaels has yet to comment on the cancellation.
In the meantime, while Poison fans will not see the band on stage this year, Bret Michaels has solo concerts lined up for 2026. Rockett, on the other hand, will be hitting the road with his side project, Rockett Mafia. He humorously suggested that a reunion could occur in 2027, joking it would be “a perfect Poison folly to do a 41st anniversary tour.”
The cancellation of the anniversary tour leaves fans uncertain about the future of one of rock’s most beloved bands. As developments unfold, many are left wondering what’s next for Poison and its legendary frontman. Stay tuned for updates as this story continues to develop.
