Karina Smirnoff Denies DWTS Romance

By: Shannon Gossage

Recently it has been rumored that Smirnoff, 30, and R&B singer Mario, 21, have been romantically involved. Smirnoff denied the rumors and said, "We have a completely professional relationship. I have a lot of respect for Mario. He is a great person." The two have reportedly been spending a lot of time together and it was recently rumored that they were spotted in Los Angeles at the Four Seasons Hotel "making out by the valet with their hands all over each other." Mario’s rep said, "This did not happen."

A source said of Smirnoff and Mario, "There is definitely chemistry and a flirtation between the two." Mario has said of Smirnoff, "I love this woman! I love her personality! I’ve grown to love the person that she is, and you should feel that way about your partner!" But Smirnoff is already romantically involved with another Mario – her former Dancing with the Stars partner Mario Lopez, 34. Smirnoff and Lopez met on season 3 of DWTS and soon after began dating. They reportedly moved in together and are still going strong. A source said, "They’re totally boyfriend and girlfriend. They went out to Eva Longoria’s restaurant [Beso] opening together."

Lopez was previously married to actress Ali Landry for a whopping two weeks. Their marriage was annulled on May 15, 2004 after it was reported he cheated on her throughout their relationship and during his bachelor party. Lopez recently hosted the MTV reality show Randy Jackson Presents: America’s Best Dance Crew. Smirnoff and her other Mario are currently heating up the dance floor for Season 6 of DWTS.