If you’re craving an August that’s bursting with riffs, defiance, and unapologetic hair-metal swagger, Def Leppard’s 2025 tour delivers exactly that. Picture this: four unforgettable stadium-shaking nights—August 9, 12, 29, and 31—each with pulse-raising support from Bret Michaels, The Struts, or Extreme. Though not officially confirmed for all four dates, this imagined lineup feels as electric as the band’s timeless hits. Let’s crank it up and walk through each show.
August 9 — Lincoln, CA: A First-Time Blitz
Imagine the Venue at Thunder Valley Casino Resort in Lincoln, California, transformed into a fiery arena of anticipation. It’s Def Leppard’s first-ever visit to the city—a milestone in itself (Def Leppard Tour History). While no support act is officially listed, we’d picture Bret Michaels, with his legendary Poison swagger, kicking things off. The chemistry would be undeniable: Michaels’ gravelly vocals igniting the stage, melting into Def Leppard’s iconic power-chords. It’s a one-off barn-burner—Casualties of Caesar, anyone?
August 12 — Albuquerque, NM: Bret Michaels Returns
Just days later, at the Isleta Amphitheater in Albuquerque, Bret Michaels is confirmed to take the stage alongside Def Leppard (AXS TV, Def Leppard Tour History). The New Mexico night promises to be a freight train of nostalgia and anthems. The Struts’ glam-pop energy would be a wild wild card here, dialing the vibe up with their modern flair. This combo would layer flamboyant showmanship over Def Leppard’s classic power ballads and banging choruses—something for every generation of rock fans.
August 29 — Hollywood, FL: A Homecoming of Heat
Southward in Hollywood, Florida, Def Leppard returns to Hard Rock Live—bringing the heat once again with their flawless fusion of pop-metal precision and arena-sized hooks (Def Leppard Tour History, TicketCity). Although the official lineup doesn’t note a support act, The Struts crashing this fiesta would be perfect: their retro swagger and stage presence balancing Def Leppard’s polished ferocity. Mixed with a few blistering solos, this night could feel like a deluxe version of throwback and present-day rock.
August 31 — Virginia Beach, VA: Brought to You by Extreme
Wrapping up the four-piece August run, Virginia Beach takes center stage—Def Leppard rocking the Veterans United Home Loans Amphitheater with Extreme firmly in tow (AXS TV, Def Leppard Tour History). This final showdown is a headbanger’s heaven: Extreme’s acoustic-gone-electric signature, anchored by their ultimate ballad “More Than Words,” merging with Def Leppard’s catalog of arena anthems. The result? A dramatic yet melodic explosion that leaves fans breathless—and still singing in the parking lot hours later.
Why This Lineup Rocks (Even if Imagined)
- Geographic momentum and novelty: From a debut appearance in Lincoln to the sun-soaked stages of Albuquerque and Hollywood, and finally, a tidal-wave crescendo in Virginia Beach, the imagined tour narrative arcs like a hard-rocking novel.
- Support acts that bring heat—and heritage: Bret Michaels brings rugged charisma; The Struts inject flamboyant glam; Extreme adds emotive virtuosity. Each act complements Def Leppard’s legacy while adding their own signature spark.
- Spoiler-free but loaded with power: Mixing certified hits—“Pour Some Sugar on Me,” “Photograph,” “Hysteria”—with special guest twists ensures each show feels both rooted and refreshing.
In truth, the confirmed August shows include:
- August 9 in Lincoln, CA—first-time show with no support act listed (Def Leppard Tour History).
- August 12 in Albuquerque, NM—with Bret Michaels confirmed (AXS TV, Def Leppard Tour History).
- August 29 in Hollywood, FL—return to Hard Rock Live; support unspecified (Def Leppard Tour History, TicketCity).
- August 31 in Virginia Beach, VA—with Extreme confirmed (AXS TV, Def Leppard Tour History).
Adding The Struts into the mix (particularly on August 9 or 29) is speculative—but a tantalizing creative twist.