On Sunday Dec. 29, UFC officials announced that mixed martial artists Anderson Silva’s leg surgery was a success. The former UFC Middleweight Champion underwent an extensive operation after breaking his left leg.

According to The Sports Xchange, UFC orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Steven Sanders performed the operation. It was also reported that the Brazilian fighter was later transported to a local Las Vegas hospital after the operation was complete.

“The successful surgery inserted an intramedullary rod into Anderson’s left tibia,” UFC officials said in a statement. “The broken fibula was stabilized and does not require a separate surgery.”

UFC officials also announced a tentative timetable for Silva’s recovery. “Anderson will remain in the hospital for a short while, but no additional surgery is scheduled at this time. Recovery time for such injuries may vary between three and six months.”

Dana White, UFC President, also weighed in on Silva’s condition. She spoke of the possibility of Silva’s return to the ring. However, she gave an honest assessment of the type of injury Silva sustained. White also explained Silva’s injuries are usually “a tough thing to come back from”.

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“Maybe he’ll want to make a comeback, but who knows,” White said. “We’ll see what happens. I don’t want to count him out. I don’t want to count him in. The important thing is he gets the surgery and heals up.”

The 38-year-old fighter sustained the leg injury during Saturday night’s fight against current UFC Middleweight Champion Chris Weidman. The injury occurred when Silva’s leg kick was checked by Weidman. Silva, who was attempting to reclaim the title, was rushed to emergency surgery immediately after the fight.

Silva took to Twitter thank fans for their support, assuring everyone of his recovery. He also included a picture of himself surrounded by his five children.

Thank you to all my fans and friends, I'will be better soon, now I need to be with my family to recovering better.. pic.twitter.com/RfD95fM2UR

— Anderson Silva (@SpiderAnderson) December 30, 2013

Image via Twitter | Anderson Silva (1)  (2)