Rob Halford Clarifies Why Judas Priest Are Missing Black Sabbath’s Farewell Megaconcert**
Judas Priest won’t be performing at Black Sabbath’s final megaconcert—set for **July 5, 2025**, at Villa Park, Birmingham—but frontman Rob Halford has offered a clear, respectful explanation for their absence.
###Timing Conflicts
The main issue? Judas Priest already has a **scheduled performance** elsewhere on the same day in **Hannover, Germany**. According to reports, both Priest and Iron Maiden are **committed to European gigs** that directly clash with Sabbath’s show.
> “Priest have a gig in Germany that day”
It seems the booking was finalized **before** the Villa Park lineup was locked in, leaving no room to shuffle dates .
###Legacy Friendships to the Rescue
Despite the band’s absence, former Priest guitarist **K.K. Downing** will be present, paying tribute to the Sabbath legacy ([wmgk.com][5]). Halford himself has a longstanding bond with Sabbath, stepping in as vocalist during live shows in 1992 and 2004 when Ozzy Osbourne couldn’t perform ([blabbermouth.net][6]). He’s also openly advocated for the original Sabbath lineup and drummer Bill Ward’s involvement in these final shows.
### Mutual Respect & Metal Brotherhood
Halford’s sentiments reflect deep gratitude and esteem:
> “There’s only one Black Sabbath… it’d be a shame to see them go a thousand percent,” he told Eddie Trunk, praising the band’s full lineup.
### Final Word
So, while Judas Priest won’t join Sabbath’s farewell, the decision comes down to **logistical commitments**, not cold feet or rivalry. Rob Halford’s warm regard for Sabbath and his support behind the scenes highlight a metal community built on camaraderie—even when schedules collide. It’s a fitting farewell: Priest shows respect from afar, while K.K. stands in, and Halford remains an unwavering advocate.
