Former UFC champion Cain Velasquez has been sentenced to five years in prison. All in connection to a 2022 shooting incident that captured national headlines. Once known for his dominance inside the Octagon. Velasquez, now 42, found himself at the center of a highly emotional and legally complex case. That has divided opinions across the country.
The sentencing took place in a packed Santa Clara County courtroom. Where both supporters and critics gathered to witness the outcome of a case filled with deep personal pain, legal challenges, and public controversy.
Former UFC Champion Cain Velasquez Sentenced After Emotional Court Hearing
The case dates back to February 28, 2022, when Velasquez allegedly chased down a vehicle containing Harry Goularte. A man who had been accused of molesting Velasquez’s young son. In the process, Velasquez fired a weapon into the vehicle. But instead of hitting Goularte, he struck Paul Bender, Goularte’s stepfather, who was also in the car at the time.
The emotional weight of the case was felt deeply in the courtroom. Velasquez’s wife and daughter were present, along with members of the victim’s family, as sentencing was delivered. Reports described the room as “standing room only,” filled with members of the media, family, and supporters.
Former UFC Champion Velasquez addressed the court directly during the hearing, delivering a heartfelt apology.
“I am truly sorry. My actions were reckless. I am ashamed and regretful for how I handled myself,” Velasquez said. “Out of all of this, I wish safe healing for my family, the Goulartes, and the community.”
The Charges and the Sentence: What Cain Velasquez Was Facing
Velasquez pleaded no contest to attempted murder, felony assault, and multiple gun-related charges. His legal team hoped for time served and probation, citing the emotional distress and context of the situation.
However, the prosecution pushed for a much harsher punishment. Deputy District Attorney Aaron French argued that Former UFC Champion Velasquez took the law into his own hands and described the events as “vigilante justice.”
“The defendant chose to impose and execute a death sentence for Harry Goularte in the middle of the day, in the middle of the streets,” French said. “He pursued and hunted [Goularte].”
Prosecutors initially sought a sentence of 30 years to life. Former UFC Champion Velasquez’s defense requested leniency, citing his time already spent in jail and the emotional trauma surrounding the incident. In the end, the court handed down a five-year sentence, which includes credit for time already served in jail and time under home confinement with an ankle monitor.
Velasquez is expected to serve approximately one more year in custody.
What Happened on February 28, 2022?
According to reports, Cain Velasquez was informed that Harry Goularte, who had been accused of molesting Velasquez’s son, was out on bail pending trial. Goularte was riding in a vehicle with his stepfather, Paul Bender, when Velasquez pursued them through the streets of Santa Clara County.
Velasquez reportedly fired a gun into the vehicle multiple times, hitting Bender but missing Goularte. Bender suffered injuries but survived. During his victim impact statement, Bender told the court that Goularte, the alleged target, helped him by applying pressure to his wounds while they waited for paramedics.
Bender called for Velasquez to receive the maximum penalty, saying that the attack not only endangered him but could have also harmed innocent bystanders.
Former UFC Champion Cain Velasquez Sentenced in High-Profile Case: Public Opinion Divided
Since the incident became public, the Velasquez case has drawn widespread attention—not just from the MMA world, but from the public at large. Some sympathized with Velasquez’s emotional reaction as a father, while others condemned the dangerous actions that could have harmed innocent people.
Supporters argue that Velasquez acted out of raw emotion and desperation, trying to protect his family. Detractors point out that such behavior, regardless of motivation, cannot be justified in a lawful society.
His defense attorney, speaking on Monday, painted the picture of a father pushed to the edge.
“If he could go back in time, he would not make that choice. He understands that was the wrong choice. But sit in his shoes for a minute. As a parent, it’s painful to even think about.”
Legal Proceedings Still Unfolding for the Accused: Harry Goularte
As Velasquez begins to serve his sentence, the man at the center of the original accusation, Harry Goularte, is still awaiting trial. Goularte has been charged with one felony count of lewd acts with a minor, and his jury trial is set to begin June 2, 2025.
In addition to the criminal case, the Velasquez family is pursuing a civil lawsuit against Goularte, his family, and their respective businesses. The civil suit names Certified Custom Concrete, a company linked to Goularte; his mother’s daycare business, Patty’s Childcare; and his stepfather, Paul Bender.
The Velasquez family’s civil action seeks damages and accountability from all parties involved. They are arguing that negligence led to the alleged abuse of their son.
Former UFC Champion Turned Convict: A Stunning Turn for Cain Velasquez
Cain Velasquez was once at the pinnacle of professional fighting. The former UFC Heavyweight Champion was known for his dominant wrestling, relentless cardio, and humble demeanor. With a record of 14 wins and 3 losses, he fought and beat legends like Brock Lesnar, Junior dos Santos, and Antônio Silva.
His fall from grace has been both tragic and shocking for fans who admired his in-cage achievements. In the eyes of many, he was more than just a fighter—he was a symbol of perseverance, toughness, and family values.
Now, his name is associated with a very different kind of legacy.
Impact on the MMA Community
The MMA world reacted swiftly to the case. Fighters, coaches, and fans weighed in, with some offering support. And while others expressed deep concern about the message such actions could send.
Many called for mental health resources and legal reforms, arguing that cases involving alleged child abuse need faster and more decisive judicial processes to prevent vigilante acts born out of frustration and pain.
Some fighters, including current UFC champions, publicly supported Velasquez. And said they understood his emotions—even if they didn’t condone his actions.
Cain Velasquez’s Future After Sentencing
At 42 years old, Velasquez’s future is uncertain. Physically, he may still be fit, but legally and emotionally, this chapter has taken a heavy toll. He is expected to serve about one more year in prison. After which he will face probation and continued public scrutiny.
Whether he returns to public life, coaching, or remains out of the spotlight is yet to be seen. What’s clear is that Velasquez is remorseful, and that this incident will follow him for the rest of his life.
He spoke honestly at sentencing, owning his actions and asking for forgiveness.
“My actions were reckless. I am ashamed and regretful,” he said. “I hope everyone affected finds healing.”
Former UFC Champion Case Cain Velasquez Sentenced to Five Years in Prison
The case of Cain Velasquez is both heartbreaking and complex. It involves deep personal trauma, public outrage, and the difficult balance between justice and compassion.
Yes, a child was allegedly harmed. Yes, a father acted recklessly. But both deserve due process.
Velasquez will now pay the legal price for taking justice into his own hands. Whether that brings closure to his family—or to the victims on the other side—remains to be seen.
As the MMA world reflects on the fall of one of its heroes, perhaps the larger conversation should be about: How we protect children, support families, and deliver justice without allowing violence to lead the way.
