Amir Khan has announced his retirement from professional boxing. 

Khan, 35, held both the WBA and IBF light-welterweight titles during a glittering career after joining the paid ranks as an Olympic silver medallist. 

But his appearances in the ring have been few and far between in recent years and he has decided to call it a day after being stopped by Kell Brook in their grudge bout in Manchester in February. 

Khan tweeted: "It's time to hang up my gloves. I feel blessed to have had such an amazing career that has spanned over 27 years. 

"I want to say a heartfelt thanks to the incredible teams I have worked with and to my family, friends and fans for the love and support they have shown me."

Khan became a household name at the tender age of 17 when he claimed silver in the lightweight division at the 2004 Olympics. 

He made his pro debut the following year and won his first world title in 2009 by claiming the WBA crown from Andreas Kotelnik. 

The Bolton fighter bows out with a record of 34 wins, 21 of which came via knockout, and six defeats.

And his retirement follows hot on the heels of fellow Brit Brook making the same decision earlier this month. 

Brook, 36, said: "I've had a long chat with my family and my parents and it's over for me. I'll never box again.

"Truth is, boxing is a very, very tough, dangerous sport, one in which you can be legally killed in the ring, and I've finished now with all my faculties intact."