Poison Reunion in Jeopardy as Bret Michaels Breaks Silence on Band’s Money Dispute

Poison frontman Bret Michaels has publicly addressed growing tension within the band following reports that their planned reunion tour collapsed over financial disputes.

Earlier this year, drummer Rikki Rockett said a proposed 2026 tour marking the 40th anniversary of Poison’s debut album Look What the Cat Dragged In fell apart because of disagreements over contracts and compensation. Rockett claimed that guitarist C.C. DeVille, bassist Bobby Dall and himself were prepared to move forward, but negotiations broke down after Michaels allegedly sought a significantly larger share of the tour revenue.

Speaking to Page Six, Rockett said the proposed split would have resulted in Michaels earning roughly six times more than the other members. “You just can’t work that way,” he said. “You don’t want to go out and work really hard just to make somebody else a bunch of money.”

Michaels appeared to respond this week in a Facebook post that avoided direct confrontation but signaled a softer tone. While congratulating other artists and sharing personal updates, he acknowledged Rockett publicly, writing: “To my friend Rikki Rockett – have fun tonight with my good buddy Eddie Trunk and enjoy the Metal Hall Of Fame ceremony.”

Michaels also reaffirmed his view of the band’s identity. “As always, I consider Poison to be Bobby, C.C., Rikki and myself,” he wrote. “I love music, I love the fans and I’m always forever grateful. Onward & upward and let’s all focus on the positive in 2026, and the potential of a future reunion.”

Rockett has said he does not want conflict with Michaels and emphasized that the dispute is about fairness rather than personal animosity. “I’m not quarreling with Bret,” he said. “We just didn’t come to agreement. I don’t like it, but I don’t think there’s a better frontman for Poison.”

Rockett also acknowledged that the remaining band members briefly considered the possibility of touring without Michaels, though he described that option as a “last resort.”

For now, no official reunion has been announced, but both sides appear to be leaving the door open — offering fans hope that Poison’s long-rumored comeback may still be possible.

Sandra Williams

Sandra is a science enthusiast and a researcher by nature. Her articles are informative and eloquent in equal measures, and always include knowledge that is verified by authentic sources. She is a maven at health related sciences and takes an interest in new scientific findings from all facets of the subject. Her column is a ready reckoner on all that is going on in the world of scientific study, and health sciences, including disease outbreaks, their causes, and prevention measures being taken.