Cain Velasquez, former UFC Champion, out on parole after prison stay for attempted murder

Former UFC Heavyweight Champion Cain Velasquez is out on parole after serving eleven months in prison. The California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation confirmed his release on Sunday, February 15, 2026.

A Case Rooted in Personal Tragedy

Velasquez, 43, was arrested in 2022 following an incident involving Harry Goularte Jr., a daycare worker accused of sexually assaulting Velasquez’s four-year-old son. Goularte was initially arrested on February 23, 2022, and released on bond two days later, with a requirement to wear a GPS ankle monitor.

Did You Know? Velasquez won the UFC Heavyweight title in 2010 by defeating Brock Lesnar.

The incident leading to Velasquez’s conviction unfolded as Goularte was en route to have the GPS device attached. Velasquez pursued the vehicle carrying Goularte, his stepfather, and his mother, Patricia Goularte, who operated the daycare. Velasquez rammed the vehicle with his truck and then discharged a firearm, striking Goularte’s stepfather, Paul Bender, in the arm. Bender’s injuries were not life-threatening.

Legal Proceedings and Sentencing

Velasquez initially pleaded not guilty but later entered a no-contest plea in 2024 to charges including attempted first-degree murder, shooting at a motor vehicle, assault with a firearm, and discharging a firearm from a vehicle. He was sentenced to five years in prison and four years of supervised probation in March 2025, receiving credit for time already served in jail and under house arrest.

Expert Insight: This case highlights the intense emotional response that can accompany allegations of harm to a child, and the legal consequences that can arise when individuals take the law into their own hands.

Velasquez is scheduled for a court appearance on June 3 to determine the amount of restitution he owes to Bender and the Goulartes. Goularte’s criminal case remains ongoing, with a trial setting conference scheduled for April 15 to determine a trial date.

Ongoing Civil Litigation

A separate civil case has been filed by Velasquez and his family against Goularte, Patricia Goularte, and Bender. The suit alleges negligence on the part of Bender and Patricia Goularte, claiming they were aware of the alleged assaults and helped cover them up. A jury trial in this civil case is scheduled for November 9.

Before his legal troubles, Velasquez achieved significant success in mixed martial arts, winning two UFC heavyweight championship titles and retiring in 2019 with a record of 17-3.

Frequently Asked Questions

What charges was Cain Velasquez convicted of?

Cain Velasquez pleaded no contest to charges including attempted first-degree murder, shooting at a motor vehicle, assault with a firearm, and discharging a firearm from a vehicle.

What is the status of Harry Goularte Jr.’s case?

Harry Goularte Jr.’s criminal case is ongoing, with a trial setting conference scheduled for April 15.

Is there a civil case related to this incident?

Yes, a civil case has been filed by Velasquez and his family against Goularte, Patricia Goularte, and Paul Bender, alleging negligence and cover-up of alleged assaults.

As Velasquez begins his parole, what impact will this experience have on his future, and how will the ongoing legal battles shape the lives of all involved?