Farrell confirms brain damage

Manchester lightweight Kieran Farrell has had to retire from the sport due to brain damage.

Farrell, 22, was taken to hospital in December after collapsing at the end of his first professional defeat against Anthony Crolla.

The problem was initially reported as exhaustion, but he has now confirmed on his Twitter account that the damage was more serious.

"Dr Hewitt confirmed my worst fears today. I will never box again, the next punch to my head could be fatal & the BBBofC (British Boxing Board of Control) wouldn't licence me," he wrote.

"I asked if I had a four-year long break would I be able to box? He told me I have long-term brain damage, once its damaged it won't mend.

"I was expecting the worst but it's worse when it's told to you, I'm heart broke."

Farrell ends his career with 14 wins, three by knock-out, and just that one defeat to Crolla in a fight for the BBBofC English lightweight title.