We feel the same way, Keo Motsepe! In an exclusive new interview with Closer Weekly, the 27-year-old pro dancer opened up about his Dancing With the Stars partner Barbara Corcoran‘s unfortunate elimination from the show — and confessed he wished their “journey didn’t have to end so soon!”

“I wish our journey didn’t have to end so soon but I hope she keeps dancing,” Keo told Closer following their Monday, Sept. 25 exit from the reality competition. “I’m so thankful to the fans for the opportunities and constant support they’ve given me through my DWTS journey and I’m sure Barbara feels the same way.” The duo made their dancing debut on the series’ Season 25 premiere on Monday, Sept. 18 and received a score of 14/30 from the judges for their Salsa to “Money Maker.”

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Keo and Barbara performing on DWTS. (Photo Credit: Getty Images)

Then, earlier this week, Keo and Shark Tank star Barbara, 68, performed a Tango to “Whatever Lola Wants” and earned a 17/30 from the judges. “Both performances had a memorable twist but Barbara truly shined during our last dance,” Keo said of their time on the show. Though he and Barbara are no longer hitting the ballroom each week, Keo confessed be believes pro Emma Slater and her celeb partner, Property Brothers star Drew Scott, may already be the Season 25 frontrunners.

“There are so many talented dancers and celebrities this season… [but] I have to say Emma and Drew’s performance was impressive considering Drew’s injury [this week]. I think if they keep dancing the way they are right now they will get far,” he revealed, adding he “can’t wait to see how the couples change and learn from one another through the season.”

Just before Season 25 premiered, Barbara similarly dished about her new DWTS gig in an interview with Closer. “I signed up for hip-hop dancing on my 60th birthday. I went to three classes, showed the room how not to do it, and I never went back,” she exclusively said of her prior dance experience. “I have a business to run, I’ve invested in 42 Shark Tank businesses, and I have an 11-year-old to raise. Yeah, I’ve got a lot on my plate, but everything waits if you get focused.”

“I’m shoving it all to the side and wishing it luck for the moment, except for my kids. I need a shrink, but instead, I’m going dancing with Keo!” Barbara continued. “Keo’s the man… the angel that believes in me!” So, will Keo be returning to Dancing With the Stars as a pro for Season 26 next year? “Only time can tell, but it would be an honor,” he told Closer. We definitely hope to see you back in the ballroom, Keo!