Luke Littler and Phil Taylor Set for Highly Anticipated Exhibition Match
Darts icons Luke Littler and Phil Taylor are set to face off in a blockbuster exhibition match, as confirmed by darts manufacturer Target. The long-rumored showdown between the two champions is now officially in the works.
Littler’s Meteoric Rise
Littler has taken the darts world by storm since making his breakthrough just over a year ago. He first stunned fans by reaching the World Championship final on debut, before going one step further this year to secure his maiden world title. The 17-year-old sensation claimed victory at Alexandra Palace, defeating Michael van Gerwen, one of the sport’s all-time greats.
Lifting the Sid Waddell Trophy is a feat that 16-time world champion Phil Taylor knows all too well. However, the legendary ‘Power’ has been absent from the professional darts scene since retiring in 2018 following a shock World Championship final defeat to Rob Cross.
Taylor’s Return to the Oche
Despite stepping away from the main tour, Taylor has remained active on the seniors circuit. Now, he’s set for a spectacular return to the big stage, with his highly anticipated clash against Littler on the horizon.
The announcement came via Target Darts, who released a 36-second promotional teaser, captioned:
🗣️ “For the first time ever. The Power vs The Nuke. Coming soon…”
The decision marks a major U-turn for Taylor, who previously dismissed the idea of facing Littler. Speaking to GB News, he had bluntly rejected the prospect:
🗣️ “No. Absolutely not!”
Adding a touch of humor, he recalled:
🗣️ “What’s that game where you push the blocks out? Jenga. He beat me at that! The little b****! He’s a lovely lad, though.”**
Littler’s Response and Aspirations
Littler, however, had always been open to the idea of sharing the stage with Taylor. Speaking to Sportbible, he confidently predicted:
🗣️ “I’m sure that will happen soon. Sooner rather than later.”
He added:
🗣️ “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.”
The teenager has often been touted as Taylor’s natural successor, with many speculating that he could one day match—or even surpass—Taylor’s 16 world titles.
After securing his first World Championship crown, Littler revealed his ambitions to challenge Taylor’s legendary record. Speaking to Sky Sports, he stated:
🗣️ “If I can win every major title in my career, then I’ll be happy.
🗣️ “I’d like to add on the world titles, and deep down, if I want to break the record of Phil Taylor, I’ve got the ability to. If I want it, I’m sure I can do it.”
What’s Next for Littler?
Before his much-anticipated exhibition match with Taylor, Littler returns to action this weekend at the UK Open in Minehead, where he will look to continue his incredible run on the professional circuit.
