The darts world is no stranger to heated debates, but few topics have sparked as much passion as the selection of the 2025 Premier League Darts lineup. At the heart of the controversy is Joe Cullen, the fiery 35-year-old nicknamed “The Rockstar,” whose exclusion from the prestigious tournament has left fans and pundits divided. With reigning world champion and defending Premier League titleholder Luke Littler securing a spot, some supporters have rallied behind Cullen, insisting he deserved a place over the teenage sensation. Recently, Cullen broke his silence on the matter, addressing the outcry with his characteristic candor and shedding light on his perspective as the darts community buzzes with anticipation for the upcoming season.
The Premier League, an annual showcase of the sport’s elite, features eight players—four selected via the PDC Order of Merit and four chosen as wildcards by the Professional Darts Corporation (PDC). Littler, now 18, earned his spot as one of the top four ranked players, a testament to his meteoric rise since bursting onto the scene. His 2024 Premier League victory, capped by a stunning nine-darter, and his historic World Championship win in January 2025 made his inclusion a foregone conclusion. Yet, for some, Cullen’s omission stings, given his proven pedigree and recent performances that have kept him in the conversation as one of darts’ most electrifying talents.
Cullen’s 2025 season has been a rollercoaster of highs and lows. His standout moments include a thrilling Players Championship 5 victory in Leicester, where he outlasted a field that saw Littler average a jaw-dropping 122. “I’ve been shown no respect, so I won’t show any respect to any of you guys tonight,” Cullen declared during a tense moment at the World Championship, a statement that underscored his frustration with being overlooked. That fiery exit from a press conference after defeating Wessel Nijman at Alexandra Palace became a defining moment, highlighting his belief that the media and fans often underestimate his prowess. Despite a third-round loss to Gerwyn Price, Cullen’s epic comeback from 3-0 down, complete with a 170 checkout, proved he can still compete with the best.
Fans have taken to social media to champion Cullen’s cause, with many arguing his experience and flair warranted a wildcard spot. “Had plenty of messages about PL picks—some saying I should be in, some saying other players should be in,” Cullen posted online, acknowledging the groundswell of support. He reflected on Littler’s inclusion, noting last year’s controversy when the then-16-year-old was selected despite limited experience. “The global attention his rise has attracted is huge for darts! And we as players will all benefit,” Cullen said at the time, showing magnanimity even as he missed out. This year, with Littler’s credentials undeniable, Cullen’s supporters point to his own achievements—like his near-miss at the 2022 Premier League title—as evidence he’s been unfairly snubbed.
Cullen’s case is bolstered by his recent form. In February 2025, he stunned both Littler and world number one Luke Humphries on the same day at the Players Championship in Wigan, reaching the final before falling to Rob Cross. His victory over Gian van Veen in Leicester, capitalizing on missed match darts, showcased his clutch performance under pressure. “The majority of darts fans will want to see Joe Cullen firing on all cylinders because, when he is at his best, he is one of the best players in the world to watch,” said Sky Sports reporter Abigail Davies, who weathered a tense interview with Cullen at Ally Pally. Her words capture the allure of Cullen’s game: a blend of precision, passion, and unpredictability that electrifies audiences.
The selection process, however, is a delicate balance. The PDC prioritizes marketability and current form, and Littler’s global appeal is unmatched. His World Championship triumph and record-breaking five nightly wins in the 2024 Premier League have made him a cornerstone of the sport’s growth. Meanwhile, wildcard contenders like Gerwyn Price, Michael Smith, and Chris Dobey also vie for spots, each bringing their own case. Cullen, ranked 22nd in the Order of Merit, faces stiff competition, and his early exit at the World Championship may have dimmed his chances. Yet, his resilience shines through. “The first picture sums up how I feel after the loss,” he shared on Instagram after his defeat to Price, adding, “It’s restored my belief that I know where I belong.”
As the Premier League looms, set to kick off in February, Cullen remains focused on proving his detractors wrong. His supporters argue that his exclusion is a missed opportunity to showcase a player who thrives in high-stakes environments. “Also thanks to all the keyboard warriors, your jealousy and ‘abuse’ is brilliant motivation, so keep it coming,” Cullen quipped, turning criticism into fuel. Whether he’s on the Premier League stage or not, “The Rockstar” is poised to keep rocking the darts world, one dart at a time.
# Joe Cullen Addresses Premier League Snub Amid Fan Outcry
## A Controversial Selection
The 2025 Premier League Darts lineup has ignited debate, with Joe Cullen’s exclusion sparking outcry from fans who believe “The Rockstar” deserved a spot over reigning champion Luke Littler. The PDC’s selection process, blending the top four ranked players with four wildcards, saw Littler secure a place after his World Championship and 2024 Premier League triumphs.
## Cullen’s Fiery Response
Cullen, 35, has faced scrutiny before, notably storming out of a World Championship press conference after a win over Wessel Nijman. “I’ve been shown no respect, so I won’t show any respect to any of you guys tonight,” he declared, highlighting his frustration with being overlooked. Addressing the Premier League debate, he noted fan support on social media: “Had plenty of messages about PL picks—some saying I should be in, some saying other players should be in.”
## A Case for “The Rockstar”
Cullen’s 2025 highlights include a Players Championship 5 win in Leicester and a stunning run in Wigan, where he defeated Littler and Luke Humphries in one day. His near-miss at the 2022 Premier League title underscores his pedigree. “The majority of darts fans will want to see Joe Cullen firing on all cylinders because, when he is at his best, he is one of the best players in the world to watch,” said Sky Sports reporter Abigail Davies.
## Littler’s Undeniable Case
Littler’s inclusion is less controversial this year, given his world title and record five nightly Premier League wins in 2024. “The global attention his rise has attracted is huge for darts! And we as players will all benefit,” Cullen said last year, supporting Littler despite his own exclusion. The PDC’s wildcard choices, however, remain contentious, with players like Gerwyn Price and Chris Dobey also in contention.
## Looking Forward
Despite a third-round World Championship loss to Price, Cullen’s 170 checkout in a comeback attempt showed his mettle. “It’s restored my belief that I know where I belong,” he shared on Instagram. As the Premier League approaches, Cullen channels criticism into motivation: “Also thanks to all the keyboard warriors, your jealousy and ‘abuse’ is brilliant motivation, so keep it coming.” Whether in the lineup or not, Cullen’s passion ensures he’ll remain a force in darts.
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