“No one in the world could replace Steve Beaton” – Chris Dobey misses presence of darts legend during ProTours

Chris Dobey has paid tribute to Steve Beaton, admitting the ProTour feels “strange” without the legendary Bronzed Adonis around the players’ table.

Beaton, now 61, stepped away from the professional circuit at the end of 2024 after surrendering his PDC Tour Card, bringing to a close one of the sport’s most enduring careers. The former Lakeside world champion and fan favourite has been a constant presence on tour for more than three decades — and Dobey says his absence has left a big gap among the current crop of players.

Dobey told the StillTalking podcast: “So at our table we have Nathan Aspinall, myself, Joe Cullen, Johnny Clayton, Ross Smith, Adam Hunt, Andy Bolton and Ryan Joyce. Steve Beaton used to sit there as well and he was an absolute legend. He’s a big miss."

“It’s his first year off tour and I’m hoping he gets sick of being away and wants to come back, because he is a legend and he’s my favourite ever player," continued Dobey warmly. “It was a privilege to sit with him for the last few years and to be one of his good friends. I don’t think there’s anybody in the world who could replace Steve. He’s a great lad.”

Beaton’s laid-back charm and ever-present smile made him one of darts’ most popular figures. Even in his later years on tour, he was known for his professionalism, longevity, and genuine warmth with both players and fans alike. For Dobey, who has spent much of his career sharing the same table as the veteran, Beaton’s presence was a source of comfort and camaraderie.

“It’s just strange without him,” Dobey added. “He’s a big miss for everyone.”

Away from the emotional tribute, Dobey also opened up about one of his stranger rituals — a self-confessed superstition that’s followed him from event to event. The world number eleven revealed that during tournaments, he always insists on using the same toilet cubicle after a victory, believing it brings him luck.

He said: “I’ll use the same toilet. If I win, like, say, there’s four or five cubicles, if I win, I’ll always use the same one. Whether somebody’s inside of it, I’ll not use another one until they come out."

“It’s one of them, I’ve always been like that," Dobey clarified. “I’ll always use the same one. Whether there’s two or three empty ones, if it’s the one I use, I’ll have to wait.”

Dobey laughed as he shared the story, admitting it’s now part of his match-day preparation. “It might sound strange, but if I win, I stick with what works.”

The Bedlington thrower has already claimed two Players Championship titles in 2025, though deep runs on the big stage have so far eluded him this season. Despite that, Dobey remains one of the most popular and down-to-earth figures in the sport — combining dry humour, relatable quirks and a clear respect for darts’ history.

With Beaton enjoying a well-earned rest and Dobey continuing his pursuit of more silverware, one thing is clear: the spirit of friendship, respect and routine still defines the PDC’s modern generation.

And if the right cubicle happens to be free, don’t be surprised if Chris Dobey adds another trophy to his growing collection.