In the fast-paced world of professional darts, few matchups capture the imagination quite like a potential showdown between the sport’s rising superstar and its undisputed greatest of all time. Luke Littler, the teenage sensation who has taken the darts world by storm, has never shied away from discussing his admiration for Phil Taylor, the 16-time world champion known as “The Power.” Recently, when pressed on how a dream exhibition match against Taylor would unfold, Littler responded with remarkable confidence and without a moment’s hesitation.
The young prodigy, fresh off another dominant Premier League night, revealed his bold prediction for such an encounter. “I’m sure that will happen soon. Sooner rather than later. To share the stage with him will be incredible. I’m sure we’ll make it happen,” Littler said enthusiastically about the prospect of facing his idol. But when it came to forecasting the outcome, he was direct: “If Taylor does start practicing then it will be tough, but if he just sits at home and then comes to an exhibition I fancy my chances.”
This unflinching self-belief underscores Littler’s meteoric rise. At just 18 years old, he has already secured back-to-back World Darts Championship titles, dismantling opponents with a precision and composure that echoes the dominance Taylor once exhibited. His latest triumph came in a commanding 7-1 victory over Gian van Veen in the 2026 final, where he showcased averages that drew inevitable comparisons to the legends of the past. Littler’s scoring power, coupled with his ability to handle pressure in high-stakes moments, has positioned him as the modern benchmark in the sport.
Phil Taylor, now retired and enjoying life away from the competitive oche, has watched Littler’s ascent with a mix of praise and caution. The Stoke legend has acknowledged the youngster’s talent, even jokingly ruling out a full match while suggesting lighter alternatives like a single leg of 301 with him going first. Yet Taylor has also expressed admiration, noting how Littler has kept his feet on the ground amid fame and fortune. “He’s a lovely lad,” Taylor has said, though he’s quick to protect his legacy with humorous deflections.
The idea of these two generational talents sharing the stage has long tantalized fans. Littler has repeatedly named Taylor as the one historical figure he’d most want to face, saying earlier, “There’s only one I would like to have a game against and that is Phil Taylor.” For Littler, it’s not just about competition—it’s respect for the man who revolutionized darts, winning an astonishing array of majors and setting records that once seemed unbreakable.
Littler’s confidence in fancying his chances stems from the evolution of the game. Today’s darts features deeper fields, higher averages, and relentless competition, factors that the young star believes give him an edge in a one-off exhibition. While Taylor in his prime was unbeatable, intimidating opponents with mind games and flawless finishing, Littler argues that the current era’s intensity would challenge even the greatest from yesteryear. He has previously suggested that prime Taylor “would struggle” against the modern crop, highlighting how the sport has progressed since Taylor’s heyday.
Still, Littler remains humble about his own trajectory. When discussing Taylor’s record of 16 world titles, he admitted, “I mean, obviously it’s so far away. Yeah, what’s that, 14 to go? Another 15, 16 years, I’d say. But yeah, if it happens, it happens… I’ll be around for a very long time and yeah, I’m here to win.” This blend of ambition and realism has endeared him to fans, who see in him the potential to not only challenge but perhaps surpass Taylor’s monumental achievements.
An exhibition between Littler and Taylor would be more than a match—it would be a celebration of darts’ past and future. Packed venues, massive viewership, and endless debate would follow, bridging the gap between eras. Littler is eager, viewing it as a chance to honor his hero while testing himself. Taylor, for his part, has wavered but left the door ajar for something fun and non-competitive.
As Littler continues to dominate, racking up majors and rewriting record books, the darts community buzzes with excitement. Whether the dream matchup materializes or remains hypothetical, Littler’s quick, assured response to how it would play out speaks volumes about his mindset: fearless, focused, and ready to etch his name alongside the greats. The Nuke is exploding onto the scene, and the Power’s shadow looms large—but for now, the future looks brightly in Littler’s favor.
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