Mere hours before tonight’s broadcast of Dancing with the Stars, Mario Lopez’ partner-in-hoofing, Karina Smirnoff, who Mario is dating, suffered a serious injury to her back.

According to sources at ABC, paramedics rushed to the scene to treat the fallen dancer. Lopez confirmed that Smirnoff "hurt her back and neck in rehearsal" but plans to dance through the pain, adding, "I hope she pulls it together. I’m nervous."

Nine contestants remain on Dancing with the Stars. Meet the Barkers’ Shanna Moakler and news anchor Tucker Carlson have already been voted off by viewers. Lopez, formerly of Saved by the Bell fame, is thought to be one of the show’s front runners.

Dancing with the Stars is scheduled to broadcast live at 8 p.m. EST.