In a recent interview with Rock Of Nations With Dave Kinchen & Shane McEachern, IRON MAIDEN drummer Nicko McBrain expressed mixed emotions about the band's upcoming eligibility for induction into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame's class of 2026.

While McBrain acknowledged that MAIDEN has been eligible since 2004 and has been nominated three times previously, he noted that the institution has a history of controversy and bias against metal and other genres.

The drummer stated, "Yeah, you just never know, do you? I mean, it has been a long road.

Many nominations — I'm not sure how many this is; maybe the third or fourth one, perhaps." McBrain also touched on the recent removal of Jann Wenner from the Hall's board of directors, which he felt could impact the voting process.

The official inductees for the Rock Hall will be announced in April, along with the "Musical Influence" and "Musical Excellence" awards.

IRON MAIDEN members Bruce Dickinson, Steve Harris, Adrian Smith, Dave Murray, Janick Gers, Dennis Stratton, Paul Di'Anno, Clive Burr, and Nicko McBrain are all eligible for induction.

Despite their eligibility, the band remains skeptical about being inducted into the Hall of Fame.

In 2018, Dickinson called it "an utter and complete load of bollocks," while Harris previously stated that he didn't care if MAIDEN was or wasn't inducted.

The drummer also noted that many musicians are getting older and passing away before they get a chance to be inducted into the Rock Hall.