Former UFC heavyweight champion Cain Velasquez received a five-year prison sentence this Monday at the Santa Clara County Hall of Justice in San Jose, California, concluding a legal battle that began in February 2022.
Velasquez, 42, was sentenced following an incident where he pursued Harry Goularte and his family with a handgun after following their vehicle. During the confrontation, Goularte’s stepfather, Paul Bender, was injured by gunfire. The incident occurred after Goularte had been arrested for allegedly molesting a then-4-year-old member of Velasquez’s family at a daycare.
In response to the court’s decision, Velasquez’s defense attorney Renee Hessling shared her thoughts with MMAJunkie, emphasizing her client’s character while acknowledging the complex nature of the case.
“Today’s results are bittersweet, we had hoped Mr. Velasquez would remain out of jail,” Hessling stated. “However, the facts remain clear: Cain Velasquez is a good man, a devoted father, and a respected member of the community. What he and his family have endured has been nothing short of a living nightmare, one they did not deserve.”
Hessling continued by highlighting Velasquez’s resilience throughout the legal proceedings: “Throughout it all, Cain has shown courage and strength of character. He has taken responsibility for his actions and has been held accountable. The sentence handed down today reflects the complexities of the situation and acknowledges the man behind the headlines. When he is released, he will continue to lead by example—protecting, contributing, and caring for the people around him.”
The MMA community has rallied behind Velasquez, with UFC’s Michael Chiesa expressing support on social media platform X. Chiesa voiced his disagreement with the court’s ruling, suggesting that the alleged abuster should have faced more severe consequences.
“Cain shouldn’t serve any jail time. In the heat of the moment, what man wouldn’t have a lapse in judgement to protect his family,” Chiesa wrote. “The focus should be on the man that committed crimes much worse than what Cain did. I’m thankful he only has to serve 5 years instead of 30.”
California licensed attorney confirmed online that the actual amount of time Velasquez will be required to spend in prison depends on if he was sent to jail or prison.
The sentencing marks the latest chapter in a case that has drawn significant attention from both the MMA world and the general public, with many continuing to express support for the former champion during this challenging time.
