Disgraced darts star has deal ripped up by ‘deeply disappointed’ sponsors after EIGHT-YEAR ban confirmed

DISGRACED darts star Leighton Bennett has been dropped by one of his sponsors after being handed an eight-year ban for match-fixing.

Bennett, 18, was initially suspended back in August once suspicious betting patterns were detected following his participation in the Modus Super Series last year.

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He was found guilty of ten counts of rigging four games at a hearing last month.

Bennett also provided inside information about the matches, failed to assist in an investigation and signed a contract with an unregistered manager.

And following his eight-year ban, which also included an order to pay £8,100.23, sponsor Target Darts - who have a have a huge deal with Luke Littler - released a statement confirming they have dropped him.

Speaking on , they said: "Target is deeply disappointed to learn of Leighton Bennett’s actions and fully respects the ruling imposed by the Darts Regulation Authority.

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"His sponsorship contract with Target Darts has been terminated, effective immediately.

"Integrity, fairness, and respect for the game are key values to Target’s mission to build a better game for all, and we remain steadfast in our commitment to upholding these principles.

"Darts is rooted in honour and respect, and we will continue to support initiatives that promote transparency, honesty and fairness across all levels of this great sport.

"Team Target."

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Bennett, from Lincoln, caught the attention of darts fans at the age of just 13 when he beat 16-time world champion Phil Taylor.

He became the youngest ever world youth champion after lifting the trophy at 13 and was tipped as a future superstar.

Bennett previously spoke about wanting his rivalry with Littler to be the "next Phil Taylor vs Raymond van Barneveld".

He said: "I’d love for Luke and I to be the next big thing of darts and I genuinely believe we can be.

"At our ages we could seriously be winning titles for the next 30 years.

“I’m looking forward to battling with Luke and players like Michael van Gerwen, Gerwyn Price and Rob Cross, who has been a mentor for me.

“I think I’ve played Luke 50 or 60 times. I’ve got a better record over him, only because I was a bit older probably."