Former Ukrainian professional boxer Wladimir Klitschko has paid an emotional tribute to his ex-partner, Hayden Panettiere, following the actress’s demise at the age of 36.

The boxer shared the tribute via his Instagram handle in a lengthy post, sharing a picture of himself, the late actress, and their daughter. He said the actress played an important role in his life as the mother of his child, even while they were separated.

“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,” Mr Klitschko stated.

The boxer also acknowledged Ms Panettiere’s career over the years, even while battling the darker side of the entertainment industry.

He said, “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.

The former heavyweight champion extended his condolences to the actress’s family, friends, and her fans of the late Nashville star, saying, “Young and talented people like Hayden should not leave this world so soon.”

The 50-year-old also requested that the public respect the family’s privacy as they grieve their loss.

“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,” added Klitschko. “Thank you to everyone who is supporting my family and expressing their sincere condolences. Rest easy, Hayden. May you find eternal peace.”

The Nashville and Heroes television series star passed on Sunday at her residence in Greenville, South Carolina, after the police received an emergency call for a reported cardiac arrest.

Her father, Skip Panettiere, confirmed her death on Monday, and the cause of her death remains under investigation.