Luke Humphries on Littler rivalry: ‘The two best darts players trying to be world champion? It’s war’
Luke Humphries on Littler Rivalry: ‘The Two Best Darts Players Trying to Be World Champion? It’s War’
Luke Humphries has delivered a blunt and passionate assessment of his rivalry with Luke Littler, admitting that when the pair step onto the biggest stage in darts, friendship is put firmly to one side.
Speaking ahead of the World Darts Championship at Alexandra Palace, Humphries made it clear that while there is mutual respect between the two Lukes, the competitive edge between them is as sharp as it gets.
“When it comes down to it, it’s the two best darts players in the world trying to be world champion,” Humphries said. “That’s war.”
Humphries, a former world champion and ex-world No1, knows better than most what it takes to survive the pressure of the sport’s biggest event. While Littler may currently dominate headlines as the teenage sensation and reigning champion, Humphries insists that reputations count for nothing once the match begins.
The rivalry has quickly become the defining storyline of modern darts. Humphries and Littler have faced each other repeatedly across the season, trading big wins and pushing standards to new heights. Their meetings have often produced heavy scoring, clutch finishing and intense atmospheres — the kind of contests fans now expect whenever the two share a stage.
Despite the fierce language, Humphries was keen to stress that there is no personal animosity. Away from competition, the pair get on well and have even shared team environments. But inside the arena, especially at the World Darts Championship, everything changes.
“You don’t think about friendship when you’re up there,” Humphries explained. “You’re thinking about winning, lifting trophies and being remembered.”
The 30-year-old also acknowledged the role Littler has played in raising the profile of the sport, while suggesting the rivalry benefits darts as a whole. With crowds growing and viewing figures soaring, the battle between experience and youth has captured the imagination of fans.
For Humphries, however, the motivation is deeply personal. After previously reaching the summit of the rankings, he is determined to prove he can reclaim his place at the top — even if that means going through Littler to do it.
As the tournament unfolds, the prospect of another Humphries vs Littler showdown looms large. And if they do meet again under the Ally Pally lights, Humphries has already set the tone.
Respect may exist off the stage, but when it comes to the World Championship, the message is clear: it’s war. 🎯
