Jul 6, 2013; Las Vegas, NV, USA; Anderson Silva during the post fight press conference at the MGM Grand Garden Arena. Chris Weidman defeated Silva for the Middleweight Chamionship in a TKO in the second round. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports

Many consider Anderson Silva to be the greatest MMA fighter of all time. He is undoubtedly the greatest UFC champion ever, and one of the most exciting athletes the sport has ever seen. Couple his accolades with the fact that Silva seems to be a genuinely good person and it makes it all the more difficult to stomach the gruesome injury he incurred at UFC 168.

In the epicly billed Middleweight title rematch against Chris Weidman, Silva threw one of his patented ferocious leg kicks that was checked by Weidman. Subsequently, Silva’s shin collided with Weidman’s knee, snapping Silva’s leg. It was a horrific and shocking end to the bout as Silva screamed in agony on the Octagon floor. Many believed they had just witnessed the unsatisfying end of Anderson Silva’s illustrious career.

Silva was immediately rushed into surgery, which was successful. After a visit from Dana White and Lorenzo Fertitta, Silva told them that he absolutely plans to return to the UFC and fight once more. Before that day comes, however, a lot of rehab is necessary. Today, we got a glimpse into Anderson Silva’s rehab as he is back in the gym without crutches.

Obviously there is still a long way to go before we see Silva back inside the Octagon, but this is a great first step. Here is to wishing Silva a speedy and healthy recovery.