Full Breakdown
Stephani Sosa and Tristen Sanders Exit DWTS: The Next Pro After Chemistry-Focused Double Elimination
8/5/2026, 5:13:17 PM
Episode Overview – Double Elimination and Chemistry Test
Episode 4 of *Dancing With the Stars: The Next Pro* featured a “chemistry” challenge in which the eight remaining contestants were split into four male-female pairs. Guest mentor and former champion Jenna Johnson guided the pairs as they performed either a rumba or an Argentine tango. After the performances, the judges announced a double elimination—one male and one female contestant would leave the competition.
Pairings and Performances
- AJ Pritchard & Adele Zaikman – rumba; praised for chemistry, with Shirley Ballas calling Adele a “superstar.”
- Allen Genkin & Nina Mayster – Argentine tango; received mixed feedback, with Shirley questioning the lack of traditional tango steps.
- Stephani Sosa & Tristen Sanders – rumba; judges felt the routine lacked moments of stillness and clear chemistry.
Judges’ Feedback and Official Responses
Mark Ballas expressed disappointment in the Sosa-Sanders performance:
- “I just wish there’d been a couple moments of stillness so those explosive moments hit a little harder for me.” — Mark Ballas
He also critiqued the Genkin-Mayster tango for straying from core technique:
- “Allen and Nina, because you went all the way out of the realm of the dance, I don’t know if you’d be able to teach it.” — Mark Ballas
Stephani Sosa, reflecting on her elimination, declared:
- “I’m never going to let myself get in my head again. I’m never letting that fire dim.” — Stephani Sosa
Outcome and Reactions
The bottom two couples were Sosa-Sanders and Genkin-Mayster. The judges sent home Stephani Sosa and Tristen Sanders, ending Sosa’s tenure after a prior stint as a DWTS troupe member. In her exit interview, Sosa emphasized personal resolve, vowing to avoid overthinking in future endeavors.
Data & Statistics
- Contestants remaining before elimination: 8 (four pairs)
- Dance styles performed: rumba, Argentine tango
- Eliminated: Stephani Sosa (female), Tristen Sanders (male)
Why It Matters – Impact on the Competition
The chemistry-focused challenge highlighted partner connection beyond technical skill. Judges’ divergent views on the Genkin-Mayster tango underscored tension between artistic interpretation and traditional ballroom standards. Erik Linder and Selena Hamilton’s standout tango positions them as early frontrunners, while the early exit of a former troupe member shows prior DWTS experience does not guarantee longevity.
What’s Next – Upcoming Guest Judge
The next episode will feature former champion Daniella Karagach as guest judge and mentor, adding expertise as contestants continue to refine their chemistry and technique.
