Maksim Chmerkovskiy confirms 'romantic' pairing with Kate Upton The voluptuous Sports Illustrated swimsuit model and "Dancing With the Stars" alum have acknowledged their relationship, thanks to Chmerkovskiy opening up to Us Weekly. "She's an amazing person," the ballroom-dancing hunk told the mag. PHOTOS: Kate Upton through the years "We have an incredible time together, and, you know, I definitely didn't see that coming and I think neither did she," Chmerkovskiy, 33, added. We enjoy each other's company very much and like I said, she's a great girl that I never thought anything romantic like this could have happened. And the ballroom dancer for the win! A source had reportedly shut down the romance last June after the two were spotted canoodling at a dinner around Upton's 21st birthday. In late September, the recently named Model of the Year and the Ukrainian ballroom bad boy were photographed holding hands while taking a stroll in New York's West Village. Despite months of rumors, their public display practically confirmed they were official, even though they said it didn't necessarily mean they were dating. Apparently it did. Even Chmerkovskiy's brother Val, who is partnered with Elizabeth Berkley on this season of "DWTS," seems to be a fan. "I think she's awesome," he told the mag. She's a great girl, and we're great friends. She's an incredible chick and we have a great time.