Luke Littler dream crushed by Phil Taylor as darts legend throws spanner in the works | Other | Sport

Phil Taylor has categorically ruled out facing Luke Littler in an exhibition despite ‘The Nuke’ saying it would be ‘incredible’ to share a stage with the 14-time world champion.

Taylor is the most decorated darts player of all time, but many have tipped Littler – already a world champion at 18 years old – to challenge his list of achievements by the time he retires.

And fans are desperate to see the 64-year-old champion of yesteryear take on today’s top dog. Littler is right there with them, telling SPORTbible about the prospect of an exhibition showdown: “I’m sure that will happen soon. Sooner rather than later.

“To share the stage with him will be incredible. I’m sure we’ll make it happen. If Taylor does start practicing then it will be tough, but if he just sits at home and then comes to an exhibition then I fancy my chances.”

However, ‘The Power’ is not so sure. And a behind-the-scenes game of Jenga between the pair may have convinced Taylor that a competitive clash with Littler would only go one way.

When asked if he would be up for playing Littler, he told GB News: “No! Absolutely not! What’s that game where you’ve got to push the blocks out? Jenga. He beat me at that! The little b******! He’s a lovely lad, though.”

Taylor was a founding member of the PDC in 1993 and won a staggering haul of titles before retiring in 2018. The Stoke-on-Trent thrower’s trophy cabinet includes 16 World Matchplays, 11 World Grand Prix crowns and six Premier League Darts triumphs.

Littler has his eye on a future coaching link-up with Taylor, whose experience could help the youngster become one of the greats of the sport. “That could possibly happen down the line,” said the youngster. “But as of now it’s just a case of me focusing on the busy schedule ahead.”

‘The Nuke’ has shot up to second in the world rankings just over a year after bursting onto the scene as a 16-year-old finalist at the 2024 World Darts Championship. Shortly after his Ally Pally run, Littler was given a wildcard entry into Premier League Darts, which he won after hitting a nine-darter against Luke Humphries in the final.

He showed more of his best last week by winning Night 2 of this season’s Premier League in Glasgow, with victories over Rob Cross, Michael van Gerwen and Humphries along the way.