Robert Irwin Reveals Major Rib Injuries Just Before DWTS Finale

UPDATE: Just moments before the highly anticipated finale of Dancing With the Stars (DWTS) Season 34, Robert Irwin disclosed that he has been battling significant rib injuries. The Australian conservationist, crowned the season’s champion, shared that his condition has been worsening leading into the final performance on November 25, 2025.

Irwin expressed his struggle with rib pain, stating, “I’ve been dealing with rib pain because the intercostal muscles of the ribs are under a lot of tension,” indicating the physical toll of the competition. His dance partner, Witney Carson, noted in a separate TikTok video that they had to modify their routine due to the injuries. “My body is feeling it. Robert’s body is feeling it. We’re like, kind of falling apart right now,” she remarked.

The duo faced a grueling journey throughout the season, with Carson adding that both dancers felt the strain after “11 weeks of crazy, vigorous, and hard dancing.” She hinted at further details about their struggles in her upcoming updates, promising fans a glimpse into their challenging week.

Despite these setbacks, Irwin and Carson delivered an electrifying performance during the finale, achieving perfect scores from the judges. They showcased their talents in three rounds: the Judge’s Choice round featured a high-energy routine to “Are You Gonna Be My Girl” by Jet, the Instance Dance segment included a lively cha-cha to “Cake by the Ocean” by DNCE, and they capped off the night with a dynamic Freestyle performance blending “Black & Gold” by Sam Sparro and “The Nights” by Avicii.

Fans are celebrating their resilience as Irwin and Carson navigate the physical demands of the competition. The finale not only marked a victory for the pair but also highlighted the extreme dedication required to compete at this level.

As the dust settles from the dramatic finale, viewers are left in awe of Irwin’s determination and the duo’s ability to overcome adversity. Stay tuned for more updates on their journey and the impact of these injuries on their future performances.