Nikki Sixx has explained why Mötley Crüe was absent from Black Sabbath’s farewell concert. He addressed fan speculation in a recent social media interaction on X.
The bassist’s response came after a fan directly asked about the band’s absence from the historic event. A fan questioned whether Mötley Crüe wasn’t invited to perform at Black Sabbath’s farewell and if they would have liked to have been there. Sixx provided a straightforward explanation.
“We have been having health issues within the band,” Sixx said.
The brief but revealing statement sheds light on the internal challenges facing the legendary rock band during the time of Black Sabbath’s “Back to the Beginning” concert.
Sixx’s cryptic response gains clarity when viewed alongside recent developments within the band. The health issues he referenced appear to center around frontman Vince Neil. Neil has faced significant medical challenges that have impacted the band’s touring schedule.
Blabbermouth reported that Neil underwent a required medical procedure. This forced Mötley Crüe to postpone their Las Vegas residency originally scheduled for March-April 2025. The surgery and subsequent recovery period created scheduling conflicts that extended beyond their planned performances.
The health concerns also led to other cancellations. People Magazine confirmed that the band was forced to cancel their appearance at the Boardwalk Rock Festival in Ocean City, Maryland, scheduled for May 2025. These cancellations demonstrate the serious nature of the health issues affecting the band’s ability to perform.
Neil addressed the situation directly with fans. He expressed his regret about the postponements. WCSX noted that Neil emphasized his health was his top priority so he could return to the stage and deliver the shows fans “deserve.”
The timing of these health challenges coincided with Black Sabbath’s farewell concert. This explains why Mötley Crüe was unable to participate in what many fans hoped would be a historic collaboration between two of metal’s most influential bands.
