First contestant axed during `Dancing' finale

Tue May 13, 2008 10:10 PM EDT

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LOS ANGELES — One down, two to go on the "Dancing With the Stars" finale.

Cristian de la Fuente was the first finalist to be eliminated during the season finale Tuesday night. Figure skater Kristi Yamaguchi and pro football star Jason Taylor were still competing for the mirrorball trophy.

De la Fuente, who ruptured a tendon in his biceps while performing on the show April 28, delayed the surgery necessary to repair it so he could continue on the ABC dance-off.

"I would never have the feeling of going into the final after an injury if it wasn't for (my partner) Cheryl (Burke)," he said after being voted off. "She's been the best partner I could have. She's been a real friend, not only a dance partner but a support when I really needed her."

Burke wiped away tears as she said goodbye to her partner.

"Of all my five seasons being on this show ... I've had one of the best times with Cristian," she said. "I love you and I'll miss you and your family so much."

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First contestant axed during `Dancing' finale

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