Hayden Panettiere's ex fiance issues heartbreaking statement after her tragic death

Hayden Panettiere's former fiancé, Wladimir Klitschko, has finally broken his silence on the tragic death of the Heroes actress.

Taking to his Instagram handle on Monday, the former professional boxer expressed his "shock and grief" over the death of Hayden, who breathed her last on August 16.

“Our family is going through a time of profound shock and grief,” Wladimir penned alongside a throwback snap of him, Hayden and their daughter, Kaya.

He further wrote, “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,” Wladimir continued. “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,"  he added.

“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,” the 50-year-old went on. “Thank you to everyone who is supporting my family and expressing their sincere condolences.”

Concluding the note, Hayden's ex-fiancé wrote, “Rest easy, Hayden. May you find eternal peace."

For those unversed, Hayden and Wladimir ended their engagement in 2018.