Robert Irwin Reveals Serious Injury Before DWTS Season 34 Victory

UPDATE: In a shocking revelation, Robert Irwin, the newly crowned champion of Dancing With the Stars (DWTS) Season 34, disclosed that he suffered a major injury just before his final performance on November 25, 2025. Irwin shared that he has been grappling with severe rib pain, which he described as progressively worsening during their intense competition.

In a candid moment, Irwin stated, “I’ve been dealing with rib pain because the intercostal muscles of the ribs are under a lot of tension.” His dance partner, Witney Carson, corroborated the struggles they faced, indicating that adjustments had to be made due to Irwin’s injuries. “We’re like, kind of falling apart right now,” Carson expressed in a TikTok video, revealing the physical toll the 11 weeks of rigorous dancing had taken on both of them.

Despite the pain, Irwin and Carson delivered an electrifying performance that wowed the judges. They secured perfect scores during the finale, showcasing their resilience and dedication. Their breathtaking routines included a high-energy dance to “Are You Gonna Be My Girl” by Jet, a cha-cha to “Cake by the Ocean” by DNCE, and a freestyle medley featuring “Black & Gold” by Sam Sparro and “The Nights” by Avicii.

The duo’s journey to the final performance was nothing short of extraordinary, considering the physical challenges they faced. Irwin’s admission of his rib injuries not only highlights the demanding nature of the competition but also underscores the emotional and physical sacrifices contestants endure to achieve success.

As fans eagerly await more details on the couple’s experience and how they managed to overcome such adversity, the urgency of their story resonates deeply within the dance community and beyond. The finale showcased not just talent but the sheer determination of Irwin and Carson to push through their struggles for a shot at victory.

Stay tuned for further updates on their journey as they navigate the aftermath of an intense competition, revealing the behind-the-scenes challenges that may have remained hidden until now.