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Former UFC heavyweight champion Cain Velasquez is set to face sentencing on October 18, following his decision to plead no-contest to charges including attempted murder. The 42-year-old ex-fighter now faces a range of possible outcomes, from probation to a potential life sentence, although the latter remains improbable due to a plea deal reached with prosecutors.
Velasquez's case stems from an incident in February 2022, where he was arrested after a high-speed car chase and a shooting. The chase was reportedly spurred by Velasquez's anger toward Harry Goularte, a man accused of molesting Velasquez’s son at a daycare center owned by Goularte’s mother. In a desperate pursuit of justice, Velasquez fired multiple rounds from a .40-caliber handgun, ultimately striking Goularte’s stepfather, Paul Bender, who suffered non-life-threatening injuries.
Velasquez's decision to plead no-contest means that while he is not admitting guilt, he accepts the punishment. The Santa Clara County District Attorney’s office has confirmed that “he faces prison time.” This plea has allowed him to avoid a lengthy trial, which was initially scheduled to begin earlier this month.
The prosecutor, Jeff Rosen, criticized Velasquez’s actions, emphasizing the danger posed to others during the incident.
“This defendant decided to become judge, jury, and executioner. His actions endangered innocent bystanders, including young children and their parents,” Rosen stated.
His words highlighted the gravity of the situation, reminding the public that no one is above the law.
Despite the serious nature of the charges, Velasquez has returned to some semblance of normalcy since his release on bail. He has resumed coaching at the American Kickboxing Academy in San Jose, California, even cornering fighters in major promotions such as the UFC and Bellator.
With his sentencing date fast approaching, Velasquez will soon discover the full weight of his actions as the court prepares to deliver its final judgment.
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