MOTOMU SAKIA has become an instant fans’ favourite after a debut moment at Ally Pally that will never be forgotten.
The 28-year-old, nicknamed the Creature, was taking part in his first World Darts Championship at the famous Alexandra Palace and he made sure to milk every minute of his first round tie.
That started from his walk-on as he high-fived and signed autographs for the fans, bounced around the stage and even cut some impressive shapes.
And the good news for darts fanatics is he will be BACK to do it all again after a 3-0 whitewash win over Thibault Tricole.
The two-time PDC Asian Championship semi-finalist has now guaranteed himself a nice £25,000 payday and will face Swedish qualifier Andreas Harrysson in round two as he bids to create a fairytale run.
He even had a meeting with the infamous Ally Pally wasp while going for the second set.
The insect has made itself quite the celebrity at the Palace – but you get the feeling Sakai could be the new King in town.
One fan said: “Yeah I’ve seen enough, get Motomu Sakai in the Premier League. He is BOX OFFICE.”
Another posted: “I think Sakai is my favourite player of all time already. What a character and what a walk-on.”
Sakai impressed during his match as well with a 121 checkout on the bull in leg three of set one and in set two he nailed a 148.
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He reached the World Championships by winning four events on the 2025 Asian Tour and finished second in the overall table to qualify.
Incredibly, he kicked off the tournament at huge odds of 2,500-1 to walk away with Luke Littler’s crown on January 3, 2026.
Even if he doesn’t land the top prize, he has won the title of ‘the People’s Champion.
And one guarantee he has in his back pocket is he will get at least one more big day out in the famous arena.
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