Cain Velazquez holds a short stint behind the bar in front of him, with his fellow fighters gathering behind him.
On Monday, the former UFC heavyweight champion was sentenced to prison for being involved in the February 2022 shooting. This led Velazquez to be involved in high-speed pursuits that fired several rounds from a handgun in a vehicle carrying Harry Goulat. Goularte is currently awaiting his own trial on child abuse charges, where Velazquez’s 4-year-old son is said to be the victim.
Velazquez was sentenced to five years in prison for attempted murder. He sued a non-contest against the charges, and his sentence includes a three-year award. This means he could be jailed within two years.
As they have experienced much of this story, Velazquez’s fellow fighters showed support for him, with fellow former UFC champion Chris Weidman writing, “This is terrible.”
Check out the social media reactions from the fighters below.
Cain should not serve prisons. In the instant heat, people do not lapse in judgment in order to protect their families. The focus should be on men who have committed far worse crimes than what Cain did. I am grateful that he has to serve for only five years, not 30. https://t.co/fkjhnnzesn
– Michael Chillany: @Duemav22) March 24, 2025
If so, everything is a good result considering how much the judicial system is being violated. It was absolutely destroyed for Cain and his family. You’ll be heading out to champion soon. You will be our legend forever and your family hero https://t.co/iipjv1w6oy
– Official Oban Elliott (@obanelliottufc) March 24, 2025
Today I’m praying for Cain Velázquez!
– Kyle Crutchmer (@kylecrutchmer) March 24, 2025