As the early stages of his career unfolded, Lewis began to make his name on the world stage and was seen as the biggest rising star when making his World Championship debut in 2006.
Two years before a venue change to Alexandra Palace, Lewis took on tricky customer Peter Manley on stage at the Circus Tavern in front of the close-quarters and raucous crowd.
It was the quarter-final stage and Manley had been notorious during his career for using mind games up on stage, a tactic which ruffled the feathers of many on tour.
And Lewis, who became known later in his career for having a short fuse when distracted at the oche, showed a new side after becoming angered by Manley’s gamesmanship.
With Lewis stepping up to the board at 3-1 down in sets, with a chance to break throw and make it 2-1 in legs in the fourth set, things became tense.
‘Jackpot’ pinned a double top to set up a chance to win the set with the darts, but when returning to the table, decided to have words with Manley.
It couldn’t be heard exactly what was said, but Lewis had become furious with Manley reportedly talking to his rival during his throw.
The crowd began booing as Lewis stepped up to the oche again, with the pair having exchanged more words.
And as he began to tune up to let his arrows go, Manley muttered under his breath again and Lewis decided he had seen enough.
He raised his hand in protest and stormed off the stage to the right, returning briefly to the backstage area.
It was met by more boos from the crowd, who loudly chanted Manley’s name, and were clearly on his side.
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