Cain Velasquez Sentenced: Why Support Remains Strong

Former UFC champion Cain Velasquez has been sentenced to five years in prison. Here’s why many still support him, and what happens next.

Cain Velasquez: MMA Legend Now Serving Time

Cain Velasquez, a former UFC heavyweight champion known for his relentless cardio and elite wrestling, has been sentenced to five years in prison for attempted murder. The case has sparked intense debate on justice, family protection, and how far a parent may go to defend a child. As Velasquez begins serving his sentence, both outrage and support continue to grow.

What Happened: The Incident Behind the Sentence

In February 2022, Velasquez chased and opened fire on Harry Goularte—a man accused of molesting Velasquez’s four-year-old son. The incident unfolded during an 11-mile car chase in Santa Clara County, California. Goularte was traveling with his mother and stepfather, Paul Bender, when Velasquez fired multiple shots into their vehicle.

Goularte was unharmed, but Bender was hit and suffered a non-life-threatening gunshot wound to the arm. Velasquez was arrested and charged with attempted first-degree murder and several counts of assault with a deadly weapon.

In August 2024, he pleaded no contest. In March 2025, he was sentenced to five years in prison. With credit for time served and good behavior, Velasquez could be released in about a year.

“This was a deeply emotional and tragic situation,” said Judge Daniel Nishigaya during sentencing. “But we cannot accept vigilantism as a response to criminal allegations.”

Why Many Still Support Cain Velasquez

Despite the gravity of the charges, Velasquez has received overwhelming public support. Fellow fighters, fans, and even UFC President Dana White have stood by him. Many believe he acted out of primal instinct to protect his son from a predator.

Supporters argue that Velasquez was let down by the legal system, which released Goularte on bail despite the serious allegations. They see Velasquez as a father pushed to the edge, not a criminal with malicious intent.

“This man is not a threat to society. He’s a hero to many, including me,” said fellow UFC legend Daniel Cormier.

A global movement advocating for Velasquez’s release gained traction shortly after his arrest. The hashtag #FreeCain trended across social media, and fans gathered outside courtrooms to show solidarity.

The Criticism: Why Others Say He Went Too Far

Not everyone agrees with the public outpouring of support. Prosecutors and legal analysts argue that Velasquez endangered lives by firing into a moving vehicle in broad daylight. Santa Clara County District Attorney Jeff Rosen stated:

“The sad tragedy is that Mr. Velasquez chose to take the law into his own hands and fired a gun into a public place, endangering everyone.”

Critics say his actions set a dangerous precedent. Even though the motivation was rooted in pain, justice must be administered within the boundaries of the law.

There is also concern for the innocent bystanders involved. Paul Bender, who was injured in the shooting, had no role in the alleged abuse but suffered the consequences of Velasquez’s retaliation.

What’s Next for Velasquez and His Family

Velasquez will serve the remainder of his sentence in a California state prison. Given his time already served and potential for early release, he may be out by early 2026.

Legal experts say he could seek parole within a year. His attorney, Renee Hessling, indicated that Velasquez has remained cooperative and focused during incarceration.

“Cain has shown tremendous courage, dignity, and strength of character. We are hopeful for his early return,” said Hessling.

Velasquez’s story may also lead to broader discussions about victims’ rights, child protection, and how the legal system handles sex crime allegations. It is likely that his case will remain a focal point in ongoing debates about justice and parental instinct.

Final Thoughts: Cain Velasquez’s Legacy Under Scrutiny

Cain Velasquez’s fall from MMA stardom to prison has left the world divided. While many view him as a heroic father who acted in desperation, others emphasize the importance of upholding legal standards.

As he serves his sentence, the MMA world waits to see how his story continues. Whether viewed as a protector or a vigilante, Velasquez has become a symbol in a larger conversation—one about justice, pain, and how far one will go to protect what matters most.

Sources: MMAnytt.se

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