Kell Brook sensationally beat Amir Khan in the sixth round, with the referee stopping the contest, to settle one of the most bitter and long-running feuds in British boxing.

A packed-out Manchester Arena witnessed a demolition job from Sheffield’s Brook, 35, who showcased timing and power to win in emphatic fashion.

A fight which had been in the making for over 17 years – with the two former world champions having traded words but never punches – ended with Khan and Brook embracing.

The thrilling encounter might mark the end of both men’s fighting careers, with Brook admitting that, although he felt he was back in top form, retirement was on his mind.

“I can live at peace with Amir Khan on my record,” Brook said. “My mojo is back and I love this game. We will listen to loved ones and see, but I’m back, baby.

“I can walk away but I could fight [Chris] Eubank [Jr]. I don’t like Eubank. If the fight is right I will fight – I’m a prize fighter.”

Khan, also 35, admitted after the sixth defeat of his career that he had struggled to switch on during the fight.

“Forty fights is a lot of fights. Winning two world titles, going to America… I need to sit down with my family, but it’s more towards the end of my career,” he said.

“That love of the sport is not there any more. When I was in the ring [before] I had that excitement, but I didn’t have it. I felt quite flat and maybe that’s a sign I should be calling it a day.”