“Dancing With the Stars” fans were in shock on Monday when news broke that Maksim Chmerkovskiy was leaving the show due to injury. No one was more surprised than the pro dancer’s brother Valentin Chmerkovskiy though.

In an interview with Us Weekly, the younger Chmerkovskiy admitted Maks’ injury was “very, very tough” to accept. Val and Maks grew up shrugging off pain, so he knew it was serious when his big brother decided he couldn’t dance. Often the injured one, Val told Us he plans to support and take care of Maks — after all, what else are siblings for?

“We’re tough dudes, tough love, that kind of runs in our family to suck it up and keep moving, but it was very shocking because I’ve never really seen my brother in pain before or like, be sidelined about anything,” Val said. “He always keeps moving, so it’s hard. He’s always there for me. I’m always getting hurt, and he’s always taking care of me, so this was kind of a flipped situation.”

Maks announced his exit from the show on Instagram ahead of Week 2. He shared a photo of he and partner Heather Morris hugging in the studio, telling fans this was going to be a hard show. He did not discuss the extent of his injury on Instagram, but said that Heather would have to hold it down for Team Maksimum Heat for now.

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“DWTS” producers showed footage of Maks’ injury during Week 2. The professional dancer hurt his calf and will have to sit out for an undisclosed amount of time. He told fans he was flying out Tuesday to get it dealt with.

Heather will continue to compete in “DWTS” Season 24. Troupe member Alan Bersten stepped up to replace Maks. He and Heather danced their first routine together, wowing with a speedy jive.

Tune in to “DWTS” Mondays at 8 p.m. EDT on ABC for more updates on Maks and Heather.

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