Cain Velasquez’s Emotional Return: A Fighter’s Reunion After Prison Release

Former UFC heavyweight champion Cain Velasquez has made headlines following his emotional reunion with family after serving time in prison. Released on parole after a year of incarceration, Velasquez is now focused on rebuilding his life and connecting with his loved ones.

Background

Incident Leading to Incarceration

In early 2022, Velasquez found himself caught in a devastating situation. He attempted to take the law into his own hands, launching a high-speed chase against Harry Goularte, a daycare worker accused of molesting his young son. During the altercation, a vehicle containing Goularte’s father was shot, resulting in injury. Velasquez’s actions led to charges of attempted murder, assault, and weapons offenses.

Key Details:

• Date of Incident: February 2022
• Charges Filed Against Goularte: Lewd acts with a minor (pleaded not guilty)
• Charges for Velasquez: Felony attempted murder and assault

Release from Prison

Parole and Credits

After serving time and facing serious charges, Velasquez was released on parole following his sentencing in March 2025. He was credited for 1,283 days served, which included time spent in county jail and on house arrest.

• Release Date: Sunday, [specific date]
• Time Served: 1,283 days

His agent, Mike Fonseca, confirmed the news to ESPN, celebrating a new beginning for the fighter.

Emotional Family Reunion

The moment of reunion with his children was captured in a touching video shared on Instagram by @mariachi_jalisciense1. Accompanied by a mariachi band, Velasquez’s children rushed to him, jumping into his arms, celebrating a poignant return home.

• Children’s Reaction: Joyful embrace
• Background Music: Mariachi band

This heartwarming scene underscores the emotional toll of his time away from home.

Acknowledgment of Mistakes

In various interviews, including an appearance on the Kyle Kingsbury podcast, Velasquez has openly discussed the regret he feels regarding his actions. He calls them “very dangerous” and expressed willingness to atone for his choices.

Key Quotes:

• "I understand what I did, and I’m willing to pay that back."
• "I can’t have hate like that for them… because there are things that I have to move on to."

Velasquez highlighted the importance of love and forgiveness, signaling his intention to move forward positively.

Career Highlights

UFC Achievements

Cain Velasquez is renowned for his impressive career in the UFC, where he achieved notable success from 2008 to 2019. His accolades include:

• Two-Time Heavyweight Champion
• Title Wins: Defeated Brock Lesnar and Junior dos Santos
• Final Record: 14 wins and 3 losses

After retiring from MMA, he briefly transitioned into professional wrestling with Lucha Libre AAA and signed with WWE. However, he was released in 2020 due to budget cuts amid the pandemic.

Moving Forward

As Velasquez steps back into life post-incarceration, he is determined to focus on his family and personal growth. His experience serves as a sobering reminder of the complexities of parental instincts and legal consequences.

Conclusion

Cain Velasquez’s story reflects both the struggles of becoming a father and the pressures of facing life-altering decisions. Through his journey, he continues to share his insights on forgiveness and personal development, inviting discussion on matters that affect many families facing similar challenges.

For more information, check out additional resources on UFC Fighters and Parenting Challenges.