Former British Commonwealth champion Chris Jenkins says he is retiring from boxing because of the results of his annual brain scan.
The Welshman said scans showed “abnormalities” compared to last year.
The 35-year-old says he is retiring because he wants to prioritize his health.
“This is without a doubt the hardest thing I've ever had to write,” he wrote in a social media post. “I have no choice but to retire from the sport I have competed in since I was 12 years old.”
Jenkins made his decision after a conversation with trainer and former world title challenger Gary Lockett.
“I recently had my annual brain scan and an abnormality was found in last year's scan, which means I would be putting myself at risk if I continued boxing,” he wrote.
“Intense matches and intense sparring can increase the risk of developing early dementia and Parkinson’s disease.
“For me, with a young family, this is an unthinkable risk. I have to be there and support my family.
“It hasn't really caught on yet.”
Jenkins, 35, made his professional debut with his hometown of Swansea in 2012 and retired with a record of 23 wins, seven losses, and three draws in 33 professional matches.
Jenkins won the light welterweight version of the prizefighter in 2013, winning the British and Commonwealth titles at welterweight six years earlier and holding the title until 2021.
Lockett said Jenkins is an old-school fighter who gave his all to the sport.
“There's no one like Chris around anymore,” Lockett told BBC Sport Wales.
“He became my fourth British Champion and winning the title against Johnny Garton in 2019 was one of the best nights of my coaching career.
“He was such a great player and even though he was in tears when he won the title, it was a great night that will stay in my memory for a long time.
“We had a great time and he's a really nice guy. He's a real family man with a lovely wife and three beautiful kids who support him.
“He's the kind of person you always want in your corner, no matter how difficult the situation. He's a special person.”
