A furious bar brawl broke out after a former darts world champion was punched in the face.
Michael van Gerwen received a brutal blow during a confrontation in Den Bosch, Netherlands.
Watch the world’s best darts tournaments LIVE on Kayo Sports | New to Kayo? Join now and get your first month for just $1.
He was involved in a fiery confrontation with a patron, who then lashed out violently, delivering a sucker punch.
Chaos ensued as Van Gerwen chased his assailant around the bar as he attempted to inflict revenge.
Several security men intervened to split the pair up, causing a melee that sparked confusion from onlookers.
The darts star’s agents released a statement defending the Dutchman.
“We are aware of footage circulating of an incident involving Michael van Gerwen,” MODUS Sports said.
“Michael did not provoke the situation and was not at fault.
“As this is a private matter, we will not be commenting further at this time.”
Unfortunately for Van Gerwen it is not his first scuffle, having had an altercation outside a kebab shop in September.
He said of the altercation: “After an enjoyable night out, we wanted to grab something to eat, and unfortunately I ended up in a situation you’d rather avoid.
“The man came at me from the kitchen, not the other way round, following a verbal exchange. People are making it sound more dramatic than it actually was, which is a shame.
“As you can see, people stepped in straight away and the situation was resolved. I even spoke with the man’s nephew afterwards, and we cleared the air before we left.”
Originally published as Former darts world champion involved in furious bar brawl after being punched in the face