The PDC World Darts Championship rarely disappoints when it comes to drama, and the charged atmosphere of Alexandra Palace once again delivered a talking point — this time involving Ricky “Rapid” Evans. His third-round clash with rising star Charlie Manby on December 29, 2025, ended in a 4-2 defeat that sparked widespread debate, not just about the result, but about Evans’ on-stage demeanor as the match slipped away.
Known for his lightning-fast throwing style and infectious personality, the 35-year-old crowd favourite had lit up Ally Pally earlier in the tournament with his trademark festive walk-ons, pom-poms and high-energy celebrations. But as Manby, a 20-year-old debutant from Yorkshire, began to take control, fans noticed a visible shift. Evans’ usual showmanship faded, replaced by signs of mounting frustration — slower dart retrievals, heavy sighs, and body language that suggested the fight was draining away.
Manby, who averaged a modest 89.50, was quick to sense the change. “I like Ricky, he’s good, but you can see it changing more or less as soon as I went in front,” he later admitted. “Once I got ahead, I knew my scoring was there all game, and if my doubles came, I’d come out on the right side.” The youngster did exactly that, calmly closing out the biggest win of his career.
For many supporters, it was jarring to see Evans unravel on a stage where he has built such a loyal following over 11 World Championship appearances. Often dubbed the “Michael Bublé of darts” for his seasonal resurgence, Evans has embraced his festive identity at Ally Pally, walking on to Shakin’ Stevens’ Merry Christmas Everyone in custom shirts and dancing his way onto the oche. This time, however, the joy was overshadowed by frustration, prompting social media chatter about a possible “headloss” under pressure.
Evans has never hidden his emotional relationship with the sport. Despite openly admitting he dislikes Christmas away from darts, he has always cherished the Worlds. “Ally Pally is always special,” he once said. “I love this tournament, which is weird for a bloke who hates Christmas!” That passion was evident in the previous round, when he stunned seventh seed James Wade in a chaotic victory that featured missed match darts and wild celebrations. “Imagine coming to darts and winning 3-0? What’s the point? Make it interesting!” he joked afterwards.
The defeat to Manby, however, showed how fine the line can be between passion and meltdown. The aftermath was ugly. Evans revealed he was subjected to a wave of online abuse, including death threats, personal insults and cruel comments about his appearance. Refusing to shy away, he responded with brutal honesty and defiance. “I was poo and I’m still better than you,” he wrote, owning his poor performance while calling out the toxicity directed his way. Importantly, he also showed class by urging fans to support Manby as the young debutant chased a memorable run toward the quarter-finals.
The episode highlights the relentless scrutiny modern darts players face in the social media age, where every reaction is dissected and amplified. Evans, who has endured personal hardship this year following the loss of his sister, has always worn his heart on his sleeve. His rapid-fire throwing style reflects his personality — explosive, entertaining and unfiltered.
While the loss marks another early World Championship exit for a player still searching for a breakthrough beyond the last 32, Evans’ response reinforced the human side of the sport. Darts isn’t only about averages and checkouts; it’s about mental resilience under intense pressure, in front of unforgiving crowds.
As the tournament rolls on without him, Evans remains unmistakably himself — backing the young talent who beat him, standing firm against abuse, and reminding everyone that even in defeat, “Rapid” Ricky Evans is one of darts’ most compelling and authentic characters.