Former five time world champion Eric Bristow died after suffering a heart attack during Thursday night’s Premier League event at the Echo Arena in Liverpool. He was 60.
Here, Press Association Sport takes a look back at some of Bristow’s memorable quotes.
“I used to walk about with a claw hammer, he was my best friend. He got me home loads of times” – reflecting on the how the people he beat as a raw youngster in the pubs around north London did not always take it so well
“Even when I go on holiday I have a practice. It’s in my blood” – on his dedication to the sport
Says it all! Who are ya!!! pic.twitter.com/aOFDfwv4iV
— Bobby George (@BobbyGeorge180) April 6, 2018
“I was never going to be like a Jimmy White (snooker player), who would choke every time. I was going to win it. I was too good not to win it” – on his mindset heading into the 1980 World Championship final against Bobby George
“I like a drink, mate. I’ll have maybe 10 or 12 pints on a good night out” – Bristow on enjoying himself away from the oche
“By the time I was 25 or 26 I would have earned a million, but if you looked in the bank account it’s not there because I’ve spent it. Oh yeah, that’s what it’s there for. I don’t want to be the richest bloke in the graveyard. Look at Elvis” – on the financial rewards of being at the top of the game
“All this cuddling and kissing on stage these days, well it’s all right in football when someone scores a goal, but not when you’re playing darts. You’re playing to beat them” – the former world champion reflects on the modern game
“Hopefully I’ve given something back to darts, which has been brilliant to me. Hopefully I made it a bit popular when I first started, I was part of the breakaway, and I also created a monster, so I think I’ve done a little bit – and if you don’t like it, up yours” – Bristow on his legacy
