Wanderlei Silva’s opponent Acelino Freitas has apologized for his part in the brawl that saw the MMA legend knocked out cold last night.

The two-time former boxing world champion stepped into the ring 44lb lighter than MMA legend Silva, but dominated proceedings throughout.

The former PRIDE champion ended up going dirty, having points deducted for headbutting.

And when Silva was disqualified in the fourth round all hell broke loose in the ring as members of both corners poured in for an all out brawl.

Ultimately, one of Freitas’ sons ended up punching the MMA star and knocking him unconscious, leading to a scary moment and the 49-year-old heading to the hospital.

Wanderlei Silva’s opponent Acelino Freitas apologizes over brawl

Acelino ‘Popo’ Freitas took to social media to make his feelings clear following the viral Wanderlei Silva brawl.

Millions tuned in to his Instagram page to watch his first video after the event, and in a full statement he apologized profusely to his opponent even after a bitter and ugly fight.

“Wanderlei was disqualified for foul play and illegal, anti-sports hitting in the quad where it was just me and him,” ‘Popo’ began. “Before that, he’d already caught a lot in every round we’ve played.

“Lacked emotional balance to make a clean boxing match and continue to the end. The result is clear: the Spaten Fight Night belt is mine!”

However, he then got more serious, adding: “Once again, I regret the episodes after the match, and I reiterate all my repudiation manifestations and previous notes rebuking all attempts to manipulate information of the opponent team.

“But boxing is bigger: respect, discipline and truth will always prevail. Thank you all for your support. This conquest is ours!”