Two-time World Darts champion reveals he wouldn’t have won his first world title had he not sunk FOUR bottles of Holsten Pilsner before his finals – and claims drinking before games ‘helps’ the players

A two-time World Darts Champion admits he would not have won his first world title had he not sunk four bottles Holsten Pilsner before his finals.

The retired darts star became the first player to win the BDO and WDC (now known as the PDC) world championships – in 1991 and 1994 respectively.

He was one of the most well-known darts players during the 1990s and won his first title back in 1991 after beating Eric Bristow 6-0 in the final of the BDO World Championships.

Three years later, this individual won the inaugural WDC World Darts Championship – defeating legend Phil Taylor 6-1 in the final.

However, the former professional reveals sinking pints was the root of his success before competing in the finals.

He claims drinking alcohol before he won his first World Championship calmed the nerves

The former star was none other than Dennis Priestley. Speaking to OLBG, the 73-year-old opened up on drinking before competing in finals.

‘Players will definitely be drinking before games, even at this year’s tournament,’ he said.

‘There aren’t many that go on stage without having a drink before they play. If you can name a handful of players who haven’t had a drop of alcohol before their games this year, I’ll be gobsmacked.

‘Drinking before games definitely helps the players. If it hadn’t been for alcohol, I probably wouldn’t have won anything in the sport. You’ve just got to know exactly the right amount you need to keep a steady nerve.’

Priestley reveals he would usually have ‘three or four bottles’ of Hilsten Pilsner before coming on stage. 

‘When I won my first World Championship, I probably had three or four bottles of Holsten Pils during the build-up to coming on stage. It just calms the nerves!’ 

The PDC World Darts Championships is set to return to our screens next Friday at Alexandra Palace in London. 

Last year, Peter Wright produced a stunning finish to come back from 5-4 down to beat Michael Smith 7-5 and land his second World Darts Championship title at Ally Pall. Wright earned £500,000 for winning the title, while Smith took home £200,000.

Peter Wright lifted the World Darts Championship trophy last year after beating Michael Smith