James Wade and Mickey Mansell produced one of the most talked-about moments of the night after a ** visibly frosty post-match handshake** ended with Wade delivering what fans described as a “death stare” toward his opponent.
The incident took place moments after a tightly contested match, where emotions were already running high. As the players met at the oche, spectators immediately sensed something was off — and cameras caught every second of the tense exchange.
A Frosty Handshake That Said Everything
Instead of the customary nod and firm handshake, the interaction was brief, stiff, and undeniably awkward. Mansell offered a quick hand, Wade barely accepted it, and neither player made eye contact.
But it was what followed that set social media alight. As Mansell turned away, Wade locked in on him with a long, unblinking stare — a look that spoke louder than any words could.
Fans immediately clipped the moment and shared it online:
- “Wade’s stare could cut glass.”
- “That wasn’t a look… that was a warning!”
- “I’ve never seen a handshake that tense in darts.”
What Triggered the Tension?
While neither player publicly addressed the moment afterwards, fans speculated that on-stage frustrations may have carried over into the handshake.
Wade has always been known for wearing his emotions openly, especially in high-pressure matches, while Mansell is a calm but competitive presence. Their styles often clash, and this latest encounter clearly left both men fired up.
Wade’s Competitive Edge on Full Display
Whether intentional or instinctive, Wade’s stern glare reminded fans why he is one of the most intense and passionate competitors on the PDC circuit. His ability to channel emotion — sometimes controversially — has long been part of his identity.
Despite the icy conclusion, Wade still took time after the game to acknowledge the crowd, though the dramatic handshake ensured the main talking point had already been sealed.
Fans Already Anticipating a Rematch
The darts community loves drama, and this moment delivered it in full.
Now, supporters are eagerly waiting to see whether this tension resurfaces the next time Wade and Mansell share a stage.
If the handshake was anything to go by,
their next meeting could be even spicier
