Chris Mason Dismisses Claims That Prime Phil Taylor Would Struggle Against Luke Littler
Former darts pro Chris Mason has strongly refuted claims that a prime Phil Taylor would have struggled to compete with Luke Littler, branding the suggestion as “absolute b*****s.”*
A potential showdown between Taylor, widely regarded as the greatest darts player of all time, and the sport’s newest superstar, Littler, has been arranged by their shared sponsor, Target Darts. However, a debate has erupted over how such a matchup would play out if both were at their peak.
Bobby George: Littler Would Beat Prime Taylor
Darts legend Bobby George, a stalwart of the BDO for three decades, believes Taylor would have been no match for the 18-year-old sensation, citing Littler’s exceptional scoring power and finishing ability.
“Taylor was a great player, don’t get me wrong. But I don’t think he would have beaten Littler, even in his heyday. His scoring power is so good, and his finishing is unbelievable.”
George went on to suggest that Taylor’s only chance would have been removing the double 10 from the board, as Littler is nearly automatic with that checkout.
“Taylor was great, but not as good as Littler. That’s my opinion.”
Chris Mason: “That’s Absolute Nonsense”
Mason, who competed against Taylor during his prime, was quick to dismiss George’s take, insisting the stats prove otherwise.
“It’s b*****s because the stats don’t lie. This game gives us numbers. I’ve seen it with my own eyes—players being put under pressure, and they wilt. That didn’t happen to Taylor; he would get stronger.”*
He highlighted Taylor’s historic averages, pointing out that the 16-time world champion consistently posted numbers that still hold up against today’s elite players.
“Taylor had tournament averages of 108 and 105. He averaged 113 against me over 24 legs. This isn’t an opinion—just do a bit of research.”
Mason also speculated that if Taylor had competed in today’s era, with more events and higher competition levels, he could have been even better than he was in his prime.
“How good would Taylor have been if he were playing in this era and pushed a bit harder? I love Bobby to bits, but he’s just so wrong on this.”
George: Taylor Shouldn’t Face Littler Now
While the debate over prime Taylor vs. Littler rages on, George firmly believes Taylor, at 64, should avoid playing Littler now—even in an exhibition match.
“He’s retired. He’s played in the Seniors and couldn’t even win there. Now he’s playing a guy who’s one of the best in the world at the moment—he’s got no chance.”
Despite this, Taylor is set to face Littler in a highly anticipated exhibition match, and regardless of the outcome, the debate over who would triumph in their respective primes is unlikely to be settled anytime soon.
