Boxing Icon (50) Mourns Sudden Death of Ex-Partner (36): 'Our Family is Deeply Shocked'

Klitschko has expressed his profound sadness on Instagram following the passing of his ex-fiancée, Hayden Panettiere. "Our family is deeply shocked and going through a period of intense grief," wrote the Ukrainian former boxer. The couple was in a relationship from 2009 to 2018 and welcomed their daughter, Kaya, in 2014. The American actress unexpectedly passed away on Sunday at the age of 36.

"The news of Hayden's tragic passing fills me with deep sorrow. She was taken from this life far too soon. Although we were no longer a couple, Hayden was an important part of my life and the mother of our daughter, Kaya," Klitschko stated in his initial reaction. Alongside the text, he shared an old family selfie. The two became engaged in 2013 but never married.

"Thanks to her immense talent, she built an impressive career, though she also faced the darker side of a demanding industry," he continued. "Nothing will ever erase the beautiful time we shared or the place she held in our lives." Klitschko emphasized that he will always speak respectfully of her mother to his daughter and "will ensure she remembers who she was."

The former heavyweight boxing world champion extended his strength and condolences to Panettiere's parents, as well as her friends and fans. "I ask everyone to respect our family's feelings and privacy during this incredibly difficult time. This is all I wish to say on the matter for now," Klitschko stressed. Finally, he thanked everyone for their support and wished the mother of his child "eternal peace."