It was a sad night on Monday’s Dancing With the Stars when the ABC competition series said goodbye to fan-favorite pair Bonner Bolton and Sharna Burgess.

The professional bull rider and model, 29, was eliminated after receiving a harsh critique from judge Len Goodman, who said he didn’t know why Bolton was still in the competition at this stage.

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ET’s Nischelle Turner spoke to Burgess and Bolton after the elimination and brought up Goodman’s comments.

“I was really taken back that Len said that,” dance pro Burgess, 31, admitted. “I would think that Len understands that after 24 season on Dancing With the Stars, it’s not always just dance, it’s that person and their story and their inspiration. Why is it a bad thing that he’s been inspiring people for eight weeks?”

Bolton added, “It’s a good thing I didn’t come do this show for those judges.”

But the cowboy had a positive outlook on his elimination, especially after working through several longterm injuries.

“I made it further than I ever knew I would. And honestly whether I stayed or went, it was a celebration for me every day I make it, every practice I make it through whatever the case may be I’m going further than I ever knew I would,” he told ET.

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As for what’s next, Bolton has left his options open.

“I don’t know I’m just riding the wave right now. So thankful for this opportunity, and I hope it leads to many more in the future,” he said.

For more from Monday’s show, watch the clip below!

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