Giovanni Pernice has told fans that he is "surprised" by recent allegations made about him during his time on Strictly Come Dancing.
The Italian dancer is thought to have quit the show last week after nine series amid reports that several of his former celebrity partners were considering legal action against him.
The 33-year-old is alleged to have caused emotional distress through his intensive training sessions - but in his first public statement on the matter, Pernice vowed to his followers that he will clear his name.
He wrote: "To my dear fans, you will be as surprised as I am that allegations have been made about my dance teaching methods in the media this week.
"Of course, I reject any suggestion of abusive or threatening behaviour, and I look forward to clearing my name.
"Those who have followed my journey on Strictly Come Dancing over the last decade will know that I am passionate and competitive. No-one is more ambitious for my dance partners than me.
"I have always striven to help them be the very best dancers they can be. This has always come from a place of love and wanting to win - for me and my dance partners. Thank you all once again for your continued love and support! Giovanni."
The BBC has yet to comment on the situation surrounding Pernice.
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