Cain Velasquez Sentenced to Five Years in Prison for 2022 Shooting Incident
Former UFC heavyweight champion Cain Velasquez has been sentenced to five years in prison for his involvement in a 2022 shooting incident targeting Harry Goularte, the man accused of molesting Velasquez’s son. The case has drawn widespread attention, particularly from the MMA and UFC communities, as fans and fellow fighters have expressed strong opinions on the matter.
Velasquez, known for his dominance in the octagon, took matters into his own hands when he allegedly pursued Harry Goularte Jr. and fired shots at a vehicle carrying him. The incident led to Velasquez’s arrest, sparking debates about vigilante justice and the legal system’s handling of child abuse cases.
Many believe Velasquez acted out of desperation to protect his family, while others argue that taking the law into his own hands led to severe consequences. His sentencing has left the UFC world divided, with some rallying behind him and others acknowledging the legal repercussions. As Velasquez prepares to serve his time, discussions about justice, self-defense, and parental instinct continue.
Cain Velasquez Sentenced to Five Years in Prison – Background of the Incident
In February 2022, Velasquez engaged in an 11-mile car chase, during which he fired multiple shots at a vehicle carrying Harry Goularte, who was facing charges of molesting Velasquez’s then 4-year-old son. The chase culminated in Velasquez shooting and injuring Paul Bender, Goularte’s stepfather, who was also in the vehicle. Goularte himself was unharmed.
Legal Proceedings and Sentencing
Velasquez faced multiple charges, including attempted murder and felony assault. In August 2024, he pleaded no contest to these charges. On March 24, 2025, the Santa Clara County court sentenced him to five years in prison. Due to time already served, Velasquez may spend approximately one more year behind bars. He has expressed remorse for his actions, acknowledging the danger they posed to others.
Reactions from the MMA Community
The sentencing has elicited mixed reactions within the MMA community. Many sympathize with Velasquez’s motivations, given the allegations against Goularte, but also recognize the seriousness of taking the law into one’s own hands. Discussions on platforms like Reddit reflect a range of opinions, from support for Velasquez to concerns about vigilantism.
Harry Goularte’s Legal Status
Harry Goularte Jr. has pleaded not guilty to charges of lewd acts with a minor. His court proceedings are ongoing, with a preliminary trial hearing scheduled for September 2025. Goularte is currently out on bail under specific conditions, including staying at least 300 yards away from the alleged victim.
Cain Velasquez’s Career and Legacy
Cain Velasquez is renowned for his achievements in the UFC, where he became a two-time heavyweight champion. He retired from professional MMA in 2019 and briefly pursued a career in professional wrestling with WWE. Despite the recent legal troubles, Velasquez’s contributions to the sport remain significant, and his legacy continues to be a topic of discussion among fans and analysts.
Conclusion
The sentencing of Cain Velasquez marks a pivotal moment in a complex and emotionally charged case. While the legal system has rendered its judgment, the broader conversations about justice, vigilantism, and the protection of vulnerable individuals persist.
FAQs
Q: What did Cain Velasquez do?
A: In February 2022, Cain Velasquez engaged in a car chase and fired shots at a vehicle carrying Harry Goularte, who was accused of molesting Velasquez’s son. Goularte was unharmed, but his stepfather, Paul Bender, was injured.
Q: What is Cain Velasquez’s sentence?
A: Cain Velasquez has been sentenced to five years in prison for attempted murder and related charges stemming from the 2022 shooting incident.
Q: Who is Harry Goularte?
A: Harry Goularte is the individual accused of molesting Cain Velasquez’s son. He has pleaded not guilty to charges of lewd acts with a minor, and his court proceedings are ongoing.
Q: Did Cain Velasquez kill anyone?
A: No, Cain Velasquez did not kill anyone. In the 2022 incident, he injured Paul Bender, the stepfather of Harry Goularte, but there were no fatalities.
Q: What is Cain Velasquez’s net worth?
A: As of 2025, Cain Velasquez’s net worth is estimated to be around $4 million, though this figure may have been affected by legal expenses and other factors.
For further details on the case and ongoing developments, refer to CNN’s coverage.