As the 2026 darts season gathers momentum, one of the sport’s most iconic figures has stepped forward to shine a light on a player he believes has been unfairly overlooked. Legendary referee Russ Bray, whose unmistakable voice has echoed through the biggest arenas in darts for decades, has spoken passionately about a competitor he feels deserves far more respect from fans and observers alike.
Bray, affectionately nicknamed “The Voice”, made his feelings clear while reflecting on the modern game and the way certain players are perceived. With the Winmau World Masters providing the backdrop to another thrilling chapter in the sport, Bray’s comments struck a chord by focusing not on trophies or hype, but on character, effort, and professionalism.
In his typically forthright manner, Bray praised the player’s attitude both on and off the oche. “He is a fantastic man, a fantastic lad off the oche,” Bray said. “On the oche, he wears his heart on his sleeve. He really does. He gives it his 100 per cent, and really gives it his all. Give him the respect and the cheers.” It was a heartfelt endorsement that underlined how much Bray values commitment and honesty in competition.
Having officiated countless finals and career-defining moments, Bray’s perspective carries real weight. He has seen eras come and go, watched legends rise, and stood mere feet away from some of the sport’s most intense battles. That experience, he believes, gives him a clear sense of which players truly give everything, regardless of whether they dominate headlines.
What seems to frustrate Bray most is the lack of appreciation shown toward quieter personalities in a sport increasingly driven by spectacle. While flamboyance and crowd-pumping celebrations often earn instant adoration, Bray argued that dedication and integrity should matter just as much. “He is a wonderful dart player and, trust me, he is every bit as good a man as well,” he continued. “He’s very quiet — if he was on here now, he would sit in the corner, nice and quiet. He’s not loud or anything. That’s his work ethic.”
Bray also made a point of defending the player’s on-stage passion, which can sometimes be misunderstood. “He doesn’t cheat. He shouts and screams at the right time,” Bray explained. “Respect the guy, because he is a smashing lad.” In Bray’s eyes, emotion is not something to criticise when it comes from genuine effort and competitive fire.
The timing of these comments is significant. Darts is currently experiencing a generational shift, with younger stars grabbing attention through explosive scoring and fearless performances on the biggest stages. While that energy has brought new fans to the sport, it has also, according to some long-standing figures, led to a tendency to undervalue players who go about their business with less noise but equal commitment.
Bray’s intervention highlights a broader conversation within darts about respect and recognition. Success is not always measured purely by major titles or viral moments. Consistency, professionalism, and the ability to keep turning up under pressure are traits that define many long careers, even if they don’t always generate headlines.
Reaction among fans has been swift and divided. Many have echoed Bray’s sentiments, agreeing that certain players deserve louder backing and greater appreciation for their efforts. Others have used the comments as a springboard to debate what respect really looks like in modern darts — whether it should be earned through entertainment value, results, or a blend of both.
What is undeniable is that Russ Bray’s words have reignited an important discussion. In a sport built on passion, pressure, and personality, his reminder feels timely: behind every walk-on song and televised finish is a professional giving everything to compete at the highest level.
As the season unfolds and the spotlight continues to shift between established stars and rising talents, Bray’s message remains clear. Some players may not shout the loudest or command the biggest cheers, but their dedication, integrity, and heart for the game deserve to be recognised. And when a figure as respected as Russ Bray speaks up on their behalf, the darts world tends to listen.
So Russ Bray said a perticular player doesn’t cheat, well who does cheat then Russ.