Cain Velasquez, the former UFC heavyweight champion, pleaded no contest to attempted murder, felony assault, and related gun charges in California after a shooting incident in 2022. Velasquez shot at a vehicle carrying three people, including 46-year-old Harry Goularte, the intended victim. The shooting resulted in another man being injured in the arm and torso. Goularte is facing felony child molestation charges, to which he has pleaded not guilty.
Velasquez’s defense attorney, Renee Hessling, described the sentencing as “bittersweet,” expressing hope that Velasquez could avoid prison time. Velasquez has been on house arrest since November, and the time served reduced his sentence significantly. The court acknowledged the complexity of the situation, considering both Velasquez’s actions and the circumstances surrounding the case.
In a recent interview, Velasquez took responsibility for his actions, acknowledging the danger his behavior posed not only to the individuals directly involved but also to innocent bystanders. He expressed regret and a willingness to do whatever it takes to make amends for his actions.
Velasquez, a retired UFC fighter, had a successful career, including two heavyweight title wins over Brock Lesnar and Junior dos Santos. However, his fighting career ended after a knockout loss to Francis Ngannou in 2019. His record stands at 14 wins and 3 losses.