Stephen “The Bullet” Bunting has publicly fired a warning to his rivals — including reigning world champion Luke Littler — ahead of the upcoming PDC World Darts Championship.

Stephen Bunting sends out warning to PDC World Darts Championship rivals: “The Bullet is coming”

 

 

 

Stephen “The Bullet” Bunting has publicly fired a warning to his rivals — including reigning world champion Luke Littler — ahead of the upcoming PDC World Darts Championship. Bunting’s message is simple: he’s coming to compete at the highest level and isn’t intimidated by Littler’s status as world No. 1 and defending titleholder.

In interviews and pre-tournament build-up, Bunting has made it clear that he believes his game is firing and that he could be a serious threat in what is shaping up to be one of the most competitive World Championships in recent memory.

Where Bunting Stands Ahead of Ally Pally Action

Bunting has had a strong season leading into the World Championship and the confidence he’s projecting isn’t out of thin air. He’s picked up significant performances on the PDC circuit — including televised titles and competitive runs against elite players — which have bolstered both his belief and reputation.

He has openly stated that winning the World Championship would be the pinnacle of his career, a goal he is determined to chase with full focus. That mindset was clear in his comments: he sees himself entering the tournament in good form and ready to challenge the very top players, including Littler.

Luke Littler: A Young Champion Under the Microscope

For context, Luke Littler is a generational talent who has taken the darts world by storm. He became the youngest PDC World Champion and went on a dominant run through multiple televised majors this year, cementing his status as one of the sport’s brightest stars.

As the defending champion heading into the 2025/26 World Championship — and a strong favorite — Littler has every reason to feel confident. Recent reports also highlight him cruising through early rounds against the likes of Darius Labanauskas, further reinforcing his form.

However, the narrative around Littler isn’t all smooth sailing. Other competitors have weighed in with opinions on his attitude and mentality under pressure, suggesting that challengers see vulnerabilities they can exploit.

Bunting’s Strategy: Mental Edge and Experience

What makes Bunting’s warning interesting isn’t just the words — but the mindset behind them. At 39, he brings a blend of experience and tactical nous that younger players sometimes lack. His approach seems designed to disrupt Littler’s rhythm psychologically as much as on stage.

By asserting “The Bullet is coming,” Bunting signals that he doesn’t view himself as an underdog — even against the dominant force that Littler has become. It’s a classic veteran tactic: take pressure off yourself and put it into the camp of your opponent.

World Championship Stakes and What Comes Next

The World Championship is heating up into a festival of darts. With a record field, massive prize pool, and global attention, every contender — from seasoned pros like Bunting to rising stars like Littler — will be fighting not just for a trophy, but for legacy.

Bunting’s bold pre-tournament shot across the bow is part of that story — a reminder that in sport, confidence and timing can be just as crucial as skill. Whether Littler responds by elevating his own game or brushing off the challenge as noise will be one of the many subplots to follow at Alexandra Palace.