Former UFC heavyweight champion Cain Velasquez made headlines once more, but this time not for his prowess in the octagon. Velasquez entered a no-contest plea to felony attempted murder, assault, and multiple weapon charges. The plea was entered at the Santa Clara County Hall of Justice in San Jose, California.
The Incident
The charges stem from a dramatic and intense car chase involving Velasquez and a man he accused of molesting his four-year-old son. This incident saw Velasquez engaging in a high-speed pursuit and firing several shots at a vehicle that contained the accused, Harry Goularte.
In a tragic turn, Velasquez missed his intended target, instead striking Goularte’s stepfather. This act led to Velasquez's arrest, with the former fighter being released on conditional bail set at $1 million in November.
The Legal Ramifications
By entering a no-contest plea, Velasquez effectively removed premeditated charges from the proceedings. Had these charges stuck, they would have carried a mandatory life sentence with the possibility of parole. This legal maneuver has now made Velasquez eligible for a lighter sentence, a decision that will be outlined in forthcoming court hearings.
The sentencing hearing for Velasquez is scheduled for October 18, a date that will mark a significant moment for the former champion as he navigates these serious legal challenges.
Goularte’s Pending Trial
Meanwhile, Harry Goularte, the man at the center of Velasquez’s accusations, is also facing his own legal battles. Goularte awaits trial on one felony count of lewd acts with a child. The intertwined cases highlight the depth and complexity of the matter at hand.
Velasquez's Storied Career
Cain Velasquez is no stranger to the limelight. He captured the UFC heavyweight championship in December 2012 in a dominant victory over Junior dos Santos. Known for his relentless pace and wrestling prowess, Velasquez successfully defended his title twice before his MMA career was cut short. His journey in the octagon came to an abrupt end after suffering a knockout loss to the fearsome Francis Ngannou in 2019.
Aside from his UFC exploits, Velasquez also ventured into the world of professional wrestling. He competed in high-profile matches, including a marquee bout against Brock Lesnar in WWE, showcasing his athletic versatility and drawing from his Mexican-American heritage, something he often proudly celebrated.
This latest chapter in Velasquez’s life is a stark departure from his days of athletic triumphs and showcases the unpredictable turns life can take. As the court date approaches, the sports world watches closely, reflecting on the complexities and often harsh realities faced by their heroes outside the arena.