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Robert Irwin and Xochitl Gomez are doing little to dispel rumors they're dating ... in fact, it's quite the opposite ... because they were spotted hanging out before his big "Dancing With The Stars" finale.

Check out these photos from backstage on the 'DWTS' lot Tuesday ... looks like Xochitl paid her rumored man a little visit. Backgrid

Robert's one of the four finalists and he and Xochitl look pretty comfortable together ... they chatted, hugged from the side and she brought him a flower bouquet.

Plus, folks who were there say Xochitl also spent some time backstage with Robert's family. Play video content

Robert danced around the dating rumors a couple weeks ago when he asked him about Xochitl at 'DWTS' practice ... but they're looking

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