Former UFC middleweight champion Anderson Silva knows first-hand just how devastating a shocking knockout can be for your career – and in a champion’s case, their legacy.

In July 2013, a then-relatively unknown Chris Weidman shocked the MMA world by defeating the “The Spider” with a vicious KO in the second round of their UFC 162 main event. The shocking loss sent Silva’s career into chaos – another loss to Weidman would follow, and then a failed drug test for steroids came in early 2015 after his victory over Nick Diaz.

Ronda Rousey hits the canvas after being knocked out by Holly Holm. (AFP) More

Needless to say, his legendary career has never quite fully recovered.

So, when UFC women’s bantamweight darling Ronda Rousey got head-kicked into oblivion at Saturday’s UFC 193 by Holly Holm, Silva felt her pain.

Almost immediately the Internet was run amok with cruel photoshops, I-told-you-so snark and brutal images of Rousey’s face – not dissimilar to the very same treatment Silva received two years ago after Weidman knocked him out.

With this in mind, Silva, 40, recently took to social media and shared a heartfelt and lengthy letter to Rousey.

"Our biggest glory doesnt lives in the fact of never fall down, But In the fact of we always stand up after each fall. With determination, You will overcome this bad time. I know very well how It is. You are a great athlete and transcend the MMA world. My kids love You. So, don’t forget: To fall Makes us stronger To stand up. You deserve the best of this world. Nobody is forever. All of us lost And To lose make us stronger. So, I wish You peace And lots of patience. Hold this experience with intelligence And don’t blame yourself. You had a big lesson Of this Sport. With class You will transform this happiness In something better To your Personal And professional life, because the world was made for people like You, a winner. Stand up your head, girl. You are a great champion of life And a inspiration for all world. Don’t forget, we Love You!"

Say what you will about Silva and his legacy going forward, but this is an incredibly thoughtful and touching tribute to one of the biggest stars the sport of MMA has ever seen.

And unlike Silva, who is nearing the end of his legendary career, Rousey is just 28. So these words of encouragement from a bonafide legend should only help “Rowdy” on her quest to retain the 135-pound championship upon her return.