Kevin Clifton, 37, had just 45 minutes to learn Alex Scott and Neil Jones’ routine before he performed it with the former footballer.
The professional dancer stepped in after Neil injured himself moments before the live show began.
Many viewers, including ex-Strictly professional, James Jordan, said Gorka Marquez should have been the one to dance with Alex, as he hasn’t had a celebrity partner this year.
Gorka even retweeted messages from viewers sharing this view on his Twitter.
Following the dance today, Kevin uploaded a post which addressed “haters”.
The picture, which was circulated by a motivation account, featured the text: “Haters, people who secretly wish to be you.”
Kevin, who is in a relationship with Stacey Dooley, his dance partner from last year, also praised Alex’s performance from last night in a post uploaded to his account.
The Grimsby-born star said he and Neil were “so proud” of Alex, as he shared a picture with her.
He began: “Unbelievable performance from @alexscott2 last. @mr_njonesofficial and myself were so proud of her.”(sic)
“At the last minute her partner gets an injury,” Kevin continued. “Has to pass the routine on to another professional in about 45mins. Then even when i made a mistake she carried on and got me through the routine.”
“Talk about calm under pressure,” The Strictly Come Dancing favourite praised.
He went on: “Just shows how difficult it is to get to a performance on a Saturday that comes together. It also shows how far @alexscott2 has come in 6 weeks and what fantastic work @mr_njonesofficial has been doing.
“They both deserve so much love.”
Kevin added he wants to see the pair get through to the final, where they would be able to repeat one of their previous performances.
He said: “Hopefully you’ll be back on your feet Neill. I want to see you 2 do that routine together in the final!”(sic)
Kevin received comments from his Strictly co-stars, including Gorka who wrote: “Great work from you guys!! @alexscott @keviclifton @mr_njonesofficial.”
While Katya Jones said: “Amazing work from all three of you, but especially @alexscott2.”
Kevin’s girlfriend, Stacey, wrote: “Well done Alex! Champ approach.”
Stacey had uploaded a video filming herself praising Kevin last night after he managed to perform the routine at the last minute.
She excitedly exclaimed: “Yes Kev, yes! That’s why he’s the damn king. He had 40 minutes to learn that routine. I am so proud!”
Strictly Come Dancing results is on tonight at 7.15pm on BBC One.
