The darts community is abuzz with excitement following the recent confirmation of a revolutionary new tournament format inspired by professional wrestling’s iconic Royal Rumble. The MODUS Super Series, known for its innovative approach to the sport, has revealed plans to introduce a darts-style Royal Rumble in 2026—a winner-stays-on spectacle that promises high-stakes drama, surprise entrants, and non-stop action on the oche.
This announcement comes months after some of the biggest names in professional darts publicly threw their support behind the concept. Reigning world champion Luke Littler, the teenage sensation who has taken the sport by storm, was among the first to champion the idea. As a lifelong WWE fan—whose walk-on music “Greenlight” by Pitbull draws directly from WrestleMania 33—the young star has long envisioned how the thrilling unpredictability of wrestling could translate to darts.
“I don’t think they could go above one leg, a 501,” Littler explained when discussing the potential format. “Straight away, one leg, the loser goes off and then the next player they’ll do the walk-on.” He even playfully suggested dramatic surprises, like a legendary return: “Phil Taylor might be entry 30, the mighty return.” Littler’s enthusiasm highlighted how the format could amplify the electric atmosphere at darts events, with crowds roaring for each new entrant’s music and dramatic reveal.
World number one Luke Humphries, Littler’s fierce rival and fellow top player, shared similar excitement. “I think it would be a good laugh, a good bit of fun,” Humphries said. “I think the fans would love it as well.” The pair, who dominate the Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) circuit, agreed that the rapid-fire legs and mystery opponents would create unforgettable moments, blending the precision of darts with the theatrical flair of WWE.
For those unfamiliar with the inspiration, WWE’s Royal Rumble features wrestlers entering the ring at timed intervals, eliminating opponents until one remains victorious. In darts, this would adapt to a knockout-style event where two players start a quick leg of 501, the winner stays to face the next challenger—revealed dramatically through their signature walk-on song—and the process continues until a single champion emerges.
The MODUS Super Series’ version will cater to players outside the PDC’s elite tour card holders, opening doors for veterans and rising talents alike. Promotional graphics have already teased potential participants, including former PDC standout Adrian Lewis, a two-time world champion who hasn’t graced the World Championship stage since 2022. Other notable names associated with MODUS events in the past include Fallon Sherrock, Martin Adams, Robert Thornton, and Kevin Painter, suggesting a field rich with experience and flair.
While Littler and Humphries, as PDC tour card holders, won’t be eligible to compete—keeping their focus on major events like the ongoing World Championship—this endorsement from the sport’s biggest stars has undoubtedly fueled the hype. Their backing earlier in the year, during discussions ahead of high-profile tournaments, helped build momentum for the idea, which has been floating around darts circles for some time.
The appeal of such an event lies in its potential to captivate audiences in new ways. Darts has exploded in popularity, thanks in no small part to Littler’s meteoric rise from teenage prodigy to world champion at just 17. Crowds adore the walk-ons, the rivalries, and the raw emotion on display. A Royal Rumble format would elevate that entertainment value, turning a single night into a rollercoaster of surprises, comebacks, and eliminations. Imagine the roar as a fan favorite’s music hits unexpectedly, or the tension as a defending winner fights off challenger after challenger.
This isn’t the first time darts has borrowed from wrestling—Littler’s own fandom has bridged the worlds, with past visits to WWE headquarters and interactions with stars like Cody Rhodes. Yet, the MODUS announcement marks a tangible step forward, proving that player-driven ideas can shape the sport’s future.
As the PDC World Championship continues to deliver thrills at Alexandra Palace, with both Littler and Humphries advancing strongly, the darts calendar looks set for even more innovation. The 2026 Royal Rumble could attract a broader audience, drawing in wrestling fans and casual viewers alike with its blend of skill and spectacle.
For now, darts enthusiasts can only imagine the chaos and glory of that inaugural event. One thing is clear: with endorsements from the likes of Littler and Humphries, this format isn’t just a gimmick—it’s a bold evolution that could redefine competitive darts for years to come.
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