Former heavyweight boxing world champion Wladimir Klitschko has expressed his "shock and grief" following the death of his ex-fiance Hayden Panettiere.
Actress's death and relationship
US actress Panettiere, best known for her roles in Heroes and Nashville, died aged 36. She and Klitschko were together for 10 years and had a daughter together in 2014.
Klitschko's tribute
The former boxer took to social media to say: "Our family is going through a time of profound shock and grief."
"The announcement of Hayden’s tragic death saddens me deeply. She left this world far too soon. Hayden was, although no longer my partner, an important part of my life and the mother of our daughter, Kaya. She built an incredible career through immense talent, while also facing the darker sides of a very demanding industry. Nothing will erase the times we shared or the place she had in our lives."
"To our daughter Kaya, I will always speak of her mother with respect and make sure she remembers the person she was. I extend my deepest condolences to Hayden’s parents, her friends, and her fans, who are also grieving today. Young and talented people like Hayden should not leave this world so soon."
Appeal for privacy
"I ask everyone to please respect our family’s feelings and privacy during this incredibly difficult time. For now, this is all I wish to say. Thank you to everyone who is supporting my family and expressing their sincere condolences. Rest easy, Hayden. May you find eternal peace."
