In an exciting chapter of the World Darts Championship, Luke Littler emerged as a formidable competitor, defeating fellow contestant Josh Rock. This event added another layer to their evolving rivalry, marked by mutual respect and fierce competition.
Luke Littler Shines Alongside Josh Rock at the World Darts Championship
The World Darts Championship showcased not just the skills but also the intense rivalry between these two talented players. Rock, who recently celebrated a historic victory at the World Cup of Darts with teammate Daryl Gurney, faced Littler who has consistently bested him in key matches.
Recent Achievements
- Josh Rock won the 2025 World Cup of Darts, making history for Northern Ireland.
- Rock and Gurney defeated Wales, including stars Jonny Clayton and Gerwyn Price, with a close score of 10-9.
- Littler has a 3-0 winning record against Rock, including victories in the 2025 World Matchplay and Flanders Darts Trophy finals.
The rivalry heightened during the Grand Slam of Darts, where Littler emphasized the importance of competition, stating, “No-one’s friends on stage.” This mindset reflects the fierce dedication both players share towards their sport, with Rock similarly acknowledging the competitive spirit involved during matches.
Match Highlights
The thrilling encounter at the World Darts Championship had Littler coming back from a 9-6 deficit to ultimately defeat Rock 16-12. This loss added to Rock’s growing list of challenges against Littler, the world number one.
Rock’s Transformation
Heading into his fourth World Darts Championship appearance, Rock has made significant personal changes. He has lost over two stone through lifestyle modifications, which he credits for boosting his performance. “I was too fat,” he admitted. “Nine weeks in, and I’ve lost weight.” This transformation aims to enhance his physical readiness for the demands of top-tier darts.
Current Standing and Future Aspirations
As the season progresses, Rock sits 11th in the PDC world rankings. He has reached semi-finals in prestigious tournaments like the World Matchplay and World Series of Darts Finals, showcasing his rising talent. With an average score of 98 in matches and impressive statistics, he retains a competitive edge heading into the championship.
Rock is known for thriving in front of a lively audience. “I love trying to get a crowd on my side,” he noted, indicating his desire to connect with supporters. This passion for crowd engagement bodes well as he looks forward to returning to the Ally Pally in December.
With a successful track record this season and aspirations to claim his first world championship title, Rock is on a determined path. His history with Littler suggests that their rivalry will continue to be a highlight in the darts community.
