PDC World Darts Championship 2025: Chris Dobey Prefers MVG Over Rydz for Semi-Final Clash

Chris Dobey secured a dramatic 5-3 victory over Gerwyn Price to book his place in the semi-finals of the PDC World Darts Championship for the first time in his career.

The match began with Price looking dominant, racing into a two-set lead. However, Dobey roared back with a relentless display, winning four consecutive sets to take a commanding 4-2 advantage. 

Yet, the seventh set proved to be a test of nerves for “Hollywood.” Haunted by memories of last year’s heartbreaking loss to Rob Cross, Dobey missed five match darts, allowing Price a lifeline.

Despite Price’s best efforts to mount a comeback, the Welshman couldn’t capitalise on Dobey’s slip-up. With the tension at its peak, Dobey produced a clinical double-double 18 finish to seal a memorable victory and end Price’s tournament hopes.

The former world champion, Price, struggled with his doubles throughout the match, missing 42 attempts—a stark contrast to Dobey’s determined finishing. 

Price seemed to enjoy the Ally Pally atmosphere, feeding off the crowd’s energy, whether they were cheering or jeering.

For Dobey, this victory marked a significant milestone, provisionally propelling him into the top 10 of the PDC Order of Merit—a first in his career.

Breaking the Curse Against Price

Heading into the quarterfinal, Dobey faced a daunting record against Price, having lost 16 of their 17 professional encounters. After the match, he admitted that the lopsided head-to-head was on his mind but used it as motivation.

“It took me a while to beat Michael [van Gerwen], but now I have a good record against him. Hopefully, I can kick on from that,” Dobey said, drawing comparisons to his turnaround against another top player.

“He’s one of the best players in the world, and the way I beat him, I scored great. He didn’t play his best, but he was gracious in defeat.”

Underdog Spirit or Favourite Status?

This year’s championship has been defined by the rise of underdogs, and Dobey now faces a semi-final clash against either Michael van Gerwen or his close friend, Callan Rydz.

When asked if he preferred being labelled the underdog or the favourite, Dobey was unfazed. “If they have me as the favourite, they have me as the favourite. If they have me as an underdog, it doesn’t bother me one bit,” he said confidently.

“Anybody can beat anybody. If my game is there, it’ll be tough to beat.”

A Potential All-Geordie Semi-Final

Dobey and Rydz, both hailing from Bedlington in Northumberland, share a close bond on and off the oche. A semi-final matchup between the two would not only be historic but also emotionally charged.

“He’s got all the talent in the world. If he can sort his head out, he’ll go on to win many of these [World Darts Championships]. I really do believe that,” Dobey said about his Geordie teammate.

While Dobey expressed admiration for Rydz, he admitted that facing his friend would be a unique challenge. “I look forward to it, whoever it is. It’ll probably be a bit easier playing Michael [van Gerwen] than it will Callan [Rydz],” he quipped.

With his breakthrough victory over Price, Dobey has announced himself as a serious contender in this year’s championship. Whether he faces van Gerwen or Rydz, Dobey’s self-belief and resilience make him a player to watch as the tournament progresses.

For now, “Hollywood” is enjoying his moment in the spotlight, proving that with determination and composure, even the most formidable obstacles can be overcome.