Ex-UFC champions Cain Velasquez ready to be sentenced for attempted murder

Cain Velasquez to be sentenced Monday in California court after pleading no contest to attempted murder charges.

Three years after his arrest on attempted murder and other charges, former UFC heavyweight champion Cain Velasquez is set to receive his sentence Monday at the Santa Clara County Hall of Justice in San Jose.

Velasquez, who pleaded no contest in August 2023, has accepted responsibility for his actions in the 2022 shooting incident and expressed a willingness to face the consequences.

Speaking on the Kyle Kingsbury Podcast, Velasquez acknowledged his wrongdoing.

“We cannot put the law in our own hands,” he said. “I know what I did was very dangerous—not just to those involved, but to innocent people. I understand that, and I’m willing to do whatever the court decides is correct.”

Velasquez was arrested in February 2022 after he pursued a vehicle carrying Harry Goularte, a man accused of molesting his then 4-year-old son. During a high-speed chase, Velasquez fired multiple shots at the car, striking Goularte’s stepfather, Paul Bender, in the arm.

Reflecting on his actions, Velasquez admitted he made the wrong decision.

“I don’t think I can ever fully pay it back, but I can learn from my mistakes and help others,” he said. “Trust your kids. Have open communication with them. Teach them what is appropriate and what isn’t so they can always come to you.”

Despite the traumatic circumstances, Velasquez said he harbors no resentment toward Goularte’s family, including his mother, Patricia Goularte, who ran the daycare where the alleged abuse occurred.

“I can’t hold hate for them,” Velasquez said. “I have to move on and give love to my kids and the people around me. I’ve forgiven them, and I wish them healing in whatever way they need.”

Initially pleading not guilty, Velasquez changed his plea to no contest last August, signaling a likely agreement between the prosecution and defense. The terms of that agreement may be revealed during Monday’s hearing.

No matter the outcome, Velasquez said his focus remains on his family and his personal growth.

“My kids are amazing,” he said. “This will not define them. They are meant for great things, and I’m just blessed to live this life with them.”

Meanwhile, Goularte, who faces one felony charge of lewd acts with a minor, is set for trial on June 2. He has pleaded not guilty.