The 2025 New Zealand Darts Masters in Auckland was already buzzing with anticipation as the seventh and final stop of the World Series of Darts kicked off, but it was an unexpected encounter that stole the spotlight before the first dart was thrown. Luke Littler, the 18-year-old darts prodigy and reigning PDC World Champion, and Stephen Bunting, the seasoned top seed known as ‘The Bullet,’ found themselves wide-eyed and laughing after a meeting with a local magician named Jonathan Usher. The dazzling tricks performed by Usher left the two dart stars momentarily speechless, setting a lighthearted tone for the high-stakes tournament at Spark Arena.
Littler, who has taken the darts world by storm since his meteoric rise, was preparing to face New Zealander Mark Cleaver in his opening match, while Bunting, fresh off victories at the Bahrain and Nordic Darts Masters earlier in 2025, was set to take on local favorite Ben Robb. Before the competition began, the duo was treated to a display of sleight-of-hand wizardry that seemed to defy reality. Usher’s tricks, executed with a charismatic flair, had Littler and Bunting shaking their heads in disbelief. Bunting, ever the joker, couldn’t resist a quip, turning to the magician with a grin and saying, “Can you magic me to win this weekend?” The cheeky remark, delivered with his trademark Scouse wit, drew laughter from those around, including Littler, who was clearly enjoying the moment. The interaction, filled with camaraderie and humor, offered a glimpse into the relaxed yet competitive spirit of these two players, who have shared both rivalry and respect on the oche.
The New Zealand Darts Masters, held over two days in Auckland, marked the culmination of the 2025 World Series, with Luke Humphries entering as the defending champion after an 8-2 rout of Damon Heta in the previous year’s final. However, it was Bunting who carried the mantle of top seed, having dominated the series with two titles and two runner-up finishes in 2025. His first-round clash with Robb promised a tough battle, with a potential quarter-final against either Chris Dobey or Simon Whitlock looming. Littler, meanwhile, was riding a wave of confidence after his World Championship triumph, where he famously dispatched Bunting 6-1 in the semi-finals before defeating Michael van Gerwen in the final. Their meeting with Usher, though, provided a brief respite from the pressure, reminding fans that even elite athletes can be left starstruck by a bit of magic.
The encounter wasn’t just a fun diversion; it highlighted the unique bond between Littler and Bunting, who hail from the same region and share a history that predates their professional rivalry. Despite their competitive clashes, including Littler’s dominant 6-0 thrashing of Bunting in a March 2025 Premier League match, their mutual respect is evident. Littler, reflecting on that earlier victory, offered words of encouragement to Bunting, saying, “If I were Stephen, you’ve just got to relax, you’ve just got to say: ‘Come on, win that first game’. I’m sure once he gets that first win and gets that winning feeling he’ll go on, I think he could win a night.” The young star’s insight into Bunting’s struggles underscored his maturity, a quality that has made him a fan favorite and a formidable opponent at just 18.
This lighthearted moment with the magician also served as a reminder of the human side of darts, a sport often defined by its electric atmosphere and intense rivalries. As Littler and Bunting returned their focus to the tournament, the buzz around their magical encounter lingered, adding a layer of charm to the event. Littler went on to shine, averaging an astonishing 115 in the final to defeat Humphries 8-4, further cementing his status as a generational talent. For Bunting, the tournament was another chance to showcase his resurgence, even if the magician’s tricks didn’t quite translate to a title win. As the darts world looks ahead, this unforgettable prelude in Auckland will remain a highlight, proving that sometimes, the real magic happens off the board.
“Can you magic me to win this weekend?” 😂🪄
Luke Littler and Stephen Bunting couldn’t believe their eyes after spending time with local magician, Jonathan Usher! https://t.co/ddJczCAHas pic.twitter.com/mtZ5PpvTrE
— PDC Darts (@OfficialPDC) August 14, 2025
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