DWTS’ Derek Hough Makes Bold Prediction About Season 34 Star Robert Irwin

“Dancing With the Stars” judge Derek Hough is weighing in on the first season 34 contestant announced — Robert Irwin. Hough thinks Irwin will be a strong competitor, based on his authenticity.

At the April 22 Disney Entertainment Television’s Get Real Event, Hough dished about Irwin, telling People, “He’s coming with them abs!”

Irwin, an Australian conservationist and son of the late “Crocodile Hunter” Steve Irwin, made a splash at the event — appearing shirtless and holding a snake! His sister Bindi Irwin competed on “DWTS” season 21 in 2015, which she won along with partner Hough.

“It’s been 10 years since that little guy was on that front row rooting for [his sister] Bindi Irwin. And to see the man that he’s become in short 10 years is pretty amazing, man,” Hough said.

He added, “We’re really lucky to have him.”

The “DWTS” judge also made a prediction about Irwin’s chances in the competition. The conservationist and his family are so loved and authentic, Hough thinks Irwin is “going to go far” on the show.

He explained, “I think that he, them as a family, they are truly just who they are. What you see is what you get. They are really that kind, they are really that positive, they really do have that energy.”

Hough continued, “It’s not upfront. And I think that this show, when you are truly authentic in that way, it really pierces through. So I think in that regard, he’s going to go far just based off of the person he is.”

Of course, personality (and abs!) can only get competitors so far — there has to be some dance talent as well. Hough noted, “Now we can just see the kind of moves he’s got.”

Irwin Is ‘Over the Moon’ About Competing on ‘DWTS’

Irwin revealed how excited he is to join the competition. “I cannot tell you what an honor, what a privilege it is to be joining this season,” he said.

“I remember being a little 11-year-old — little 11-year-old Robert about this big with a little bowl cut, you remember that! — and watching you and Bindi having the most incredible time, lighting up the dance floor,” Irwin shared.

He added, “I just thought ‘one day that’s gonna be me.’ I had these little dreams going ‘one day!’ and now that dream is a reality, and I am over the moon. Let’s do this!”