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Dave Mustaine Rejoins Metallica: ‘It’s Time to Finish What We Started’
In a twist no one saw coming, Dave Mustaine, the founding member of Megadeth and original lead guitarist of Metallica, has officially rejoined Metallica after more than four decades apart. The bombshell announcement was made jointly by both bands in a press conference streamed live from San Francisco.
“It’s time to finish what we started,” said Mustaine, standing alongside Metallica members James Hetfield, Lars Ulrich, Kirk Hammett, and Robert Trujillo. “We’ve all grown. The tension is gone. This is about making history—and music that no one else can.”
Mustaine, who was famously dismissed from Metallica in 1983 before forming Megadeth, had long expressed unresolved feelings about the split. But recent collaborations and behind-the-scenes talks apparently led to reconciliation. Sources close to the bands say the new lineup will not replace Kirk Hammett, but will instead feature a dual-lead guitar setup, merging the power of both legends on one stage.
The reunited Metallica-Mustaine force is set to headline a special “Big Four Resurrection” tour in 2026, featuring Megadeth, Slayer (who may reunite for the occasion), and Anthrax. Even more shocking: the band has already begun work on a collaborative album tentatively titled “Reforged”, blending Megadeth’s technical thrash with Metallica’s arena-scale power.
Fans worldwide are in disbelief. Social media exploded within minutes, with hashtags like #Mustallica and #DaveReturns trending globally.
“This isn’t about ego,” Hetfield said. “It’s about brotherhood, healing, and creating something the world thought was impossible.”
Whether temporary or permanent, this is a moment of heavy metal history in the making. For fans who’ve dreamed of seeing Mustaine and Metallica together again—it’s finally real.