I think this might be true, did he not mention on either his ITT interview or the main show that we might see him at Christmas?
I'm glad he won't be doing it, whatever the reason is. Kelly is completely different, because she was forced to leave by family circumstances, maybe she wouldn't have won but I bet she'd have been in the final three of series five, just being saved by the judges. I think the show has pandered to John long enough, allowing him an exit dance without being voted off and a standing ovation for the world's most mediocre routine
I'm sorry we won't be seeing Kristina though- maybe she could be in the pro dance.