– Former UFC heavyweight champion Cain Velasquez was released from prison today, marking the end of a nearly ten-month incarceration stemming from a 2022 incident in Santa Clara County, California. The release comes after Velasquez entered a no-contest plea to charges including attempted murder and felony assault with a firearm in August 2024.
Video of Velasquez’s release circulated online Sunday, confirming reports that he would be leaving custody on . He was initially sentenced to five years in prison but received credit for time already served, both in custody and under house arrest, which expedited his eligibility for parole.
The case originated from a high-speed pursuit where Velasquez discharged a handgun at a vehicle he believed contained a man who had sexually abused his son. The stepfather of the man in the vehicle was struck by gunfire, sustaining injuries that were not life-threatening. The incident sparked a complex legal battle and ignited a national conversation about vigilante justice and the handling of child abuse allegations.
Velasquez’s attorney, Renee Hessling, confirmed his release to MMA Fighting on Sunday. The 43-year-old fighter will now serve four years of supervised parole. His early release, several months before his originally anticipated parole date in March 2026, was attributed to his participation in rehabilitative programming while incarcerated.
In a surprising turn, Velasquez has already announced plans for a potential public event following his release. He shared on social media his intention to explore hosting a one-day Holotropic Breathing Seminar in the San Jose area. The seminar, according to Velasquez, would focus on guided breathwork, mental and emotional reset, stress relief, and a meet-and-greet opportunity for attendees. The event would be limited capacity and require payment.
Velasquez emphasized the significant role breathwork has played in his own well-being, stating he wants to share the experience with others. “After my release on , I’m exploring the idea of hosting a one-day Holotropic Breathing Seminar in the San Jose area,” he posted on Instagram. “Breathwork has been a powerful tool for me and I’d like to share it with others.”
The announcement of the seminar comes as a notable shift for the former UFC champion, known for his aggressive fighting style and two reigns as the heavyweight titleholder. Velasquez’s career was marked by periods of dominance interspersed with injuries, but his recent legal troubles overshadowed his athletic achievements.
Velasquez’s time in prison followed his arrest and a lengthy legal process. He was initially arrested after the high-speed chase and faced severe charges. The case drew significant media attention, particularly given the sensitive nature of the allegations surrounding his son’s alleged abuse. The eventual plea agreement allowed Velasquez to avoid a potentially much longer sentence.
The incident and subsequent legal proceedings highlighted the emotional toll of the allegations against Harry Goularte Jr., the man Velasquez believed was responsible for the abuse. Goularte faces separate charges of child molestation, and his release on bond against the prosecution’s advice further fueled Velasquez’s actions.
While Velasquez’s future in mixed martial arts remains uncertain, his focus now appears to be on personal healing and sharing tools for mental and emotional well-being. The Holotropic Breathing Seminar represents a new chapter for the former champion, one centered on self-improvement and helping others navigate challenging circumstances.
The details regarding the seminar, including dates, location, and registration information, are expected to be released soon as Velasquez gauges public interest. His return to public life will undoubtedly be closely watched by fans and observers alike, as he transitions from the world of professional fighting to a new role as a wellness advocate.
