Nathan Aspinall is relishing his return to the BetMGM Premier League Darts and is ready to show that he's up for the fight this season - by taking up boxing!
The former UK Open and World Matchplay champion will be one of the stars of the Premier League this season, having also reached the semi-finals of the World Darts Championship recently.
The 2020 Premier League runner-up spent two months out of the sport last summer for treatment on an arm problem, but is fighting fit off the oche thanks to a healthy new regime - which has seen him link up with one of British boxing’s biggest names: Jack Catterall.
The Stockport thrower, 33, made the short trip to see Chorley's Catterall at his gym in Bolton ahead of the new Premier League campaign.
After sharing some tungsten tips with the World Title challenger, Aspinall put on the 10oz gloves on to show that he's got the stomach for the fight too.
"I absolutely love the boxing,” said Aspinall. "I'm mad into it and I'm always watching the big fights on TV.
"I've been to see Jack before and myself and Luke Littler will be supporting him in his upcoming World Title fight against Arnold Barboza Jr in Manchester.
"Jack's a top lad and he was kind enough to take me on the pads at his gym. Honestly, you don't realise how difficult it is until you’re in there trying to put everything together.
"You've not only got to be hard as nails but you really do need to be as fit as a fiddle. I enjoyed hitting a few uppercuts but I'll probably stick to the day job after that!"
Aspinall's fitness regime has also seen him enjoy his first 5k Parkrun in Milton Keynes during the World Masters last weekend.
"For us on the PDC circuit, it’s a busy run on the road and the Premier League calendar takes us all over the place," he added.
"I feel great at the moment and it's because I am doing my bit to keep myself in good nick. I've got the Fuel Hub food prep as well and it's important that I look after myself as it will help stand me in good stead for the season ahead.
"I'm genuinely buzzing to get started for this season and I can't wait to entertain the fans again - but I really want to be crowned the winner come May.
"So, in Boxing speak, I’ll be looking to deliver some knockout performances. I'm ready to rumble!"
Jack Catterall will compete for the WBO Interim World Super Lightweight Title against Arnold Barboza on Saturday February 15 at Co-op Live in Manchester. Click here for more details.