Former UFC heavyweight champion Cain Velasquez has been released from California state prison after serving 10 months behind bars, marking the end of a dramatic legal saga that began with a high-speed chase and shooting incident in 2022.

The 43-year-old mixed martial arts legend secured his freedom on Sunday from the Correctional Training Facility, where he had been housed since March 2024 following his no-contest plea to multiple charges, including attempted murder. His attorney Renee Hessling confirmed the release to MMA Fighting, bringing closure to one of the most shocking criminal cases in recent MMA history.

The Incident That Changed Everything

Velasquez's legal troubles stem from a February 2022 incident that began as a father's desperate attempt to protect his child but escalated into a dangerous 11-mile high-speed chase through California. The former champion was pursuing a vehicle containing Harry Goularte, a man accused of molesting Velasquez's son at a daycare facility owned by Goularte's mother.

The situation that triggered Velasquez's actions was particularly disturbing for the former champion. Despite facing child molestation charges, Goularte had been released on bond against the prosecution's recommendations, a decision that clearly frustrated the protective father. This release set the stage for the confrontation that would ultimately derail Velasquez's post-fighting career and land him in prison.

During the chase, Velasquez fired multiple rounds from a .40-caliber handgun at the fleeing vehicle. While his intended target was Goularte, the shots instead struck Paul Bender, Goularte's stepfather, in the arm. Bender sustained non-life-threatening injuries, but the incident resulted in serious criminal charges for the former UFC star.

Legal Proceedings and Sentencing

The legal process proved lengthy and complex for Velasquez. After his arrest by the Morgan Hill Police Department, he spent eight months in jail before being granted bail. The prosecution initially sought an aggressive sentence of 30 years to life, reflecting the serious nature of the charges.

However, Judge Arthur Bocanegra ultimately handed down a more lenient five-year sentence, taking into account various factors including Velasquez's lack of prior criminal history and the circumstances that led to his actions. The sentence included credit for time already served, which proved crucial in determining his actual prison time.

Velasquez's early release came thanks to California's rehabilitative programming system, which allows inmates to earn additional time off their sentences by participating in various programs designed to aid their rehabilitation and reintegration into society. Originally eligible for parole in March, his release date was moved up to February due to his participation in these programs.

Life Between Conviction and Prison

Before reporting to prison in March 2024, Velasquez attempted to rebuild his life and career. He returned to work as a coach at the renowned American Kickboxing Academy in San Jose, the same gym where he had trained during his championship fighting days. This return to familiar surroundings provided some stability during an incredibly turbulent period.

Additionally, Velasquez made appearances at professional wrestling shows, activities that were permitted by the courts as part of his pre-sentencing arrangements. These appearances demonstrated his continued popularity among combat sports fans, despite the serious legal issues he was facing.

The Road Ahead

While Velasquez's release marks a significant milestone, his legal obligations are not entirely complete. He is scheduled to appear in court on March 18 for a restitution hearing that has already been delayed several months. Under California law, victims of violent crimes are entitled to restitution from convicted perpetrators, and the amount Velasquez will owe has yet to be determined.

This upcoming hearing represents the final chapter in the legal proceedings, though the financial implications could be substantial depending on the court's decision regarding Paul Bender's medical expenses and other damages related to the shooting.

Impact on MMA Legacy

Velasquez's criminal case has undoubtedly complicated his legacy in mixed martial arts. Once considered one of the greatest heavyweight champions in UFC history, his accomplishments in the octagon now exist alongside this criminal conviction. The former champion's two-time reign as UFC heavyweight champion and his victories over legends like Brock Lesnar and Junior dos Santos established him as one of the sport's elite competitors.

The case also highlighted the complex emotions and protective instincts that can drive parents when their children are threatened. While Velasquez's actions were clearly illegal and dangerous, many in the MMA community and beyond expressed understanding for the motivation behind his behavior, even while condemning the methods he chose.

Broader Implications

The Velasquez case has raised important questions about the justice system's handling of child molestation cases and the frustrations that can arise when accused predators are released on bail. The decision to release Goularte, despite prosecution objections, directly contributed to the chain of events that led to Velasquez's criminal actions.

As Velasquez begins to rebuild his life outside prison walls, the MMA community will be watching to see how he navigates this transition. His coaching work at American Kickboxing Academy suggests a potential path forward in the sport that made him famous, though his criminal record will undoubtedly impact future opportunities.

The former champion's release after 10 months represents a relatively brief prison stay for such serious charges, reflecting both the unique circumstances of his case and the effectiveness of California's rehabilitative programming system. As he prepares for the final legal hurdle in March, Velasquez can begin the process of truly putting this dark chapter behind him and focusing on rebuilding his life and career in the combat sports world.