Former UFC heavyweight champion Cain Velasquez is no longer behind bars. Velasquez, 43, was released on parole Sunday after serving nearly 11 months at the Correctional Training Facility in Soledad, California. His release had been anticipated, though the specific terms of his parole have not been publicly disclosed.
Shortly after news broke, photos and video surfaced of Velasquez reuniting with family members greeted by loved ones and even a mariachi band in an emotional homecoming moment.
The Case That Shook the MMA World
In February 2025, Velasquez was sentenced to five years in prison after pleading no contest to multiple charges, including attempted murder.
He had already accumulated significant time served — 1,283 days credited — which included:
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Nearly nine months in custody following his arrest
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Time spent out on bail under strict ankle monitoring beginning in November 2022
The charges stemmed from a February 2022 incident in which Velasquez pursued a vehicle carrying Harry Goularte, a man accused of molesting Velasquez’s young son at a daycare facility.
During the chase, Velasquez fired a handgun at the vehicle. A bullet struck Goularte’s stepfather, Paul Bender, causing nonfatal injuries.
Ongoing Legal Proceedings
Goularte has pleaded not guilty to a felony charge of lewd acts with a minor and remains out on bail awaiting trial. Separate civil lawsuits connected to the case are also ongoing.
Velasquez’s case became one of the most polarizing legal sagas in combat sports history drawing widespread sympathy from fans while also sparking debate about vigilantism and due process.
Since his arrest, Velasquez has publicly expressed remorse for his actions. He has stated that he is at peace and wishes no harm to anyone including Goularte acknowledging that he handled the situation improperly despite acting out of emotion as a father.
His parole marks a major milestone in what has been a years-long legal ordeal.
What’s Next?
Velasquez’s fighting career had already wound down before his legal troubles. A two-time UFC heavyweight champion, he remains one of the most accomplished heavyweights in MMA history.
Now 43, his focus appears centered on family and rebuilding life outside the courtroom and prison system. For many fans, Sunday’s release signals the closing chapter of one of the most complex and emotionally charged stories the MMA world has seen. For Velasquez, it’s a second chance this time, outside the cage.
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Robert LaMar is a writer for Dice City Sports. You can follow him on X via @RobertLaMar26
