Rock 'n' Roll Fuels Andrew Gilding's World Matchplay Charge with Ozzy Osbourne Tribute

Darts cult hero Andrew Gilding stormed into the quarterfinals of the Betfred World Matchplay for the second year running, producing a dominant 11-5 win over Dutchman Dirk van Duijvenbode in Blackpool.

The 2023 UK Open champion was in sublime form, averaging over 100 as he booked his place in the last eight — but it was his emotional post-match interview that truly resonated.

Iron Man Gilding 

Gilding, a self-confessed rock ‘n’ roll fanatic and guitar collector, revealed he was spurred on by the recent passing of music icon Ozzy Osbourne, who died on July 22.

“Yeah, I’m afraid Ozzy Osbourne died yesterday, a sad day really,” Gilding said. 

“I’ve actually got a signature Tony Iommi guitar at home. I love a bit of Black Sabbath.”

The Suffolk thrower said he had been listening to Black Sabbath tracks in his headphones during his pre-match routine, using the heavy metal energy to gear himself up for the clash — and it clearly worked.

With his love for rock legends no secret, we asked whether the tragic news of Osbourne’s death gave him an extra edge at the oche. He agreed.

Gilding then revealed just how deep his fandom goes, owning a replica guitar from Black Sabbath’s iconic guitarist Tony Iommi — a treasured piece of memorabilia that connects him even more closely with the band’s legacy.

We also asked if the Iommi guitar was one of his big purchases following his UK Open triumph in 2023, when he pocketed a career-best £110,000.

“Yeah, I’ve been collecting guitars since then. Much to the disappointment of my other half,” he joked.

Whether another guitar joins the collection remains to be seen — but Gilding now finds himself just three wins away from the £200,000 top prize and the prestigious Phil Taylor Trophy.

However, standing in his way next could be the tournament favourite and teenage sensation, Luke Littler, if he is to get past Jermaine Wattimena.