In a stunning turn of events at the iconic Alexandra Palace, fan favorite Stephen Bunting, the fourth seed and world number four, suffered a heartbreaking third-round defeat at the 2025/26 PDC World Darts Championship. The Liverpudlian, nicknamed “The Bullet,” was ousted 4-3 in a thrilling seven-set battle by the unheralded James Hurrell, marking the biggest upset of the tournament so far and sending shockwaves through the darts world.
Bunting, who has long been one of the most beloved figures on the PDC circuit, entered the championship with high hopes after a stellar 2025 season. He had captured multiple titles, including World Series events, and reached the semi-finals the previous year, where he fell to the eventual champion. Known for his electrifying walk-ons and infectious energy that whips the crowd into a frenzy with chants of “One Stephen Bunting,” he was seen as a serious contender to go deep—perhaps even challenging for the Sid Waddell Trophy. His path to the third round had been gritty: a hard-fought win over a young challenger in the opening stages, followed by a dominant straight-sets victory against an Indian trailblazer making history on the Ally Pally stage.
Yet, against Hurrell—a 41-year-old journeyman ranked outside the top 50—things unraveled in dramatic fashion. The match was a rollercoaster from the start, with both players trading blows in a contest that went the distance. Hurrell, who had already claimed notable scalps en route, including victories over established names in earlier rounds, started strongly and could have taken a commanding lead early on. Bunting, however, showcased his resilience with some spectacular ton-plus checkouts, clawing his way back and forcing a decider. He even survived a match dart at one point, keeping the packed crowd on the edge of their seats.
In the end, though, it was Hurrell who held his nerve. A crucial break of throw in the final set opened the door, and he sealed the victory with a composed 100 finish, pinning tops to claim the biggest win of his career. The atmosphere shifted palpably as the reality sank in—the raucous support for Bunting faded into stunned silence, underscoring the magnitude of the upset.
This defeat represents more than just a personal disappointment for Bunting. As the highest-seeded player to exit the tournament prematurely, his departure has dramatically altered the landscape of the top half of the draw. Defending champion and world number one Luke Littler, who was projected to potentially meet Bunting in the semi-finals, now faces a clearer path forward. Littler himself delivered a masterclass later that evening, dismantling his opponent 4-0 in a dominant display that included his highest average yet at the Worlds. “That’s the best I’ve felt, even more than last year’s tournament and the one before that,” Littler reflected afterward, exuding confidence as he marches on undefeated in sets.
For Bunting, the loss caps a year of highs and lows. Despite his on-stage brilliance and off-stage popularity—bolstered by his engaging personality and family-oriented outlook—the 40-year-old has shown signs of vulnerability in recent months. He has spoken openly about the pressures of the sport, including dealing with online criticism and the physical toll of a demanding schedule. Earlier in the tournament, moments of emotion hinted at the mental battles he was facing, yet his fighting spirit kept him in contention until the very end.
Hurrell’s triumph, meanwhile, is a testament to the unpredictable magic of darts. Having overcome serious health challenges in the past that sidelined him for years, his resurgence at Ally Pally is an inspiring story of perseverance. Now provisionally climbing into the top 50 rankings, he advances to the fourth round, where tougher tests await. This run not only secures him a significant payday but also cements his status as a dangerous floater capable of toppling giants.
The World Darts Championship has already been littered with surprises this year, with several former champions and top seeds bowing out early. Bunting’s exit amplifies that narrative, creating what many are calling a “disaster scenario” for pre-tournament favorites in his section of the bracket. It opens the door wider for players like Littler and others to capitalize, potentially paving the way for a new chapter in the sport’s hierarchy.
As the tournament resumes after the festive break, the focus shifts to who will seize these opportunities. With the crowds at Alexandra Palace delivering their trademark electric atmosphere—complete with fancy dress, chants, and pints flying—the drama is far from over. Darts fans know better than anyone: in this game, anyone can beat anyone on any given night, and Bunting’s shock departure is the perfect reminder of that thrilling unpredictability.
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