Professional dancer Gleb Savchenko has criticized Maura Higgins for stirring up “unnecessary conflict” and asserted he is unfamiliar with her, amidst rumors that she refuses to be his partner on Dancing With The Stars.
The issue arose when the Love Island personality, aged 35, allegedly informed producers that she does not want any involvement with the professional dancer in the upcoming season due to her disapproval of his remarks about women.
Maura, aged 42, maintains a close friendship with Gleb’s former girlfriend Brooks Nader, who commenced a relationship with the dancer during their time competing on the show in 2024.
As the new season of Dancing With The Stars approaches on September 15, an insider disclosed that Gleb was displeased by Maura’s comments, hinting that filming might become “quite uncomfortable.”
In response to Maura’s statements, Gleb addressed the situation with the Mirror, labeling the situation as an attack by a ‘total stranger.’
Expressing his thoughts on the reports, Gleb stated: “I had never even heard of this individual, Maura, until I was prompted to comment on this story, so I have no reason to be concerned about the opinions of someone I have never met.
“It is peculiar to publicly criticize a complete stranger, but if that is how she intends to grab attention before the show commences, that is her decision. I will remain focused and steer clear of unnecessary drama.”
A veteran on DWTS since 2013, Gleb previously made headlines by discussing his past relationship with reality TV personality Brooks, describing it as “the worst intimate encounter” he has experienced.
Their relationship began during the show and endured until October 2024 before a brief separation followed by a reunion. However, their romance ultimately ended in April.
In a candid interview, Gleb recounted: “When I was with her, it was pretty terrible. Likely the worst intimacy of my life. She was quite troubled.
“She wanted to be physically intimate, and I was not comfortable with that. She physically assaulted me, pinned me against the wall, and even chipped my tooth…”
While Brooks had positive remarks about their intimate moments, Maura was angered by Gleb’s interview and expressed her dissatisfaction.
When questioned by E! News following her announcement in the DWTS lineup, Maura indicated that she would prefer any partner besides Gleb.
She justified her choice by stating her loyalty to Brooks and her discomfort with Gleb’s attitude towards women.
Maura also mentioned her preference to dance with professional Mark Ballas, with whom she worked on the Traitors.
The Mirror has reached out to Maura’s representatives for a statement.
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