Nicko McBrain, the 72-year-old drummer for Iron Maiden, is retiring.

“After much consideration, it is with both sorrow and joy, I announce my decision to take a step back from the grind of the extensive touring lifestyle,” he wrote on the band’s website. “Today, Sat, Dec 7th, Sao Paulo will be my final gig with Iron Maiden. I wish the band much success moving forward.”

McBrain suffered a stroke back in January of 2023. He was touring after just four months off.

But there comes a time when even the toughest guys have to take a step back and take a rest, and so McBrain is retiring.

Loudwire reports McBrain promised to “remain firmly part of the Iron Maiden family.”

“Touring with Maiden the last 42 years has been an incredible journey,” he wrote. “To my bandmates, you made it a dream come true and I love you! I look into the future with much excitement and great hope! I’ll be seeing you soon, may God bless you all, and, of course, ‘Up the Irons!’”

McBrain had been with Iron Maiden since 1982 when, per Loudwire, he first appeared on the band’s “Piece of Mind” album.

According to the report, McBrain said he had not fully recovered from his stroke when he returned to the stage.

Mark Heim is a reporter for The Alabama Media Group. Follow him on Twitter @Mark_Heim. He can be heard on “The Opening Kickoff” on WNSP-FM 105.5 FM in Mobile or on the free Sound of Mobile App from 6 to 9 a.m. daily.