Dom Taylor has been axed from this year’s competition after failing a drugs test.
It comes after “The Tower” beat Oskar Lukasiak in the first round, which had setup a tie with Jonny Clayton in the second round.
“In line with its ongoing anti-doping procedures the PDC and DRA are conducting drug testing during the 2025/26 Paddy Power World Darts Championship at Alexandra Palace,” the statement from the DRA read.
“On 19 December, the DRA was notified of an adverse analytical finding in respect of the player Dom Taylor resulting from a test conducted on 14 December.
“As a result of this and in line with relevant DRA processes, Dom Taylor has been suspended from participating in any DRA regulated events with immediate effect.
“This matter will now be the subject of a disciplinary process in line with the relevant DRA Anti-Doping Rules. The DRA will not be making any further comment pending the outcome of this confidential process.”
Jonny Clayton has been given a bye into the third round as a result and won’t play this evening.