Cain Velasquez, former UFC heavyweight champion, has officially been transferred to Wasco State Prison in California following his recent five-year prison sentence for attempted murder. The 42-year-old MMA legend was relocated from the county jail near San Jose and will serve his time at the Wasco facility for the foreseeable future.
As part of the intake process, Velasquez was required to pose for a new mugshot, which TMZ Sports has obtained. In the photo, the former fighter appears stoic and serious, showing the weight of the moment as he begins this next chapter of his legal journey.
The Background: A Case That Rocked the MMA World
Cain Velasquez was first arrested in February 2022 after he allegedly chased down and shot at Harry Goularte, a man accused of molesting one of Velasquez’s young relatives. The incident involved a high-speed car chase through Santa Clara County, where Velasquez reportedly fired multiple shots at a vehicle carrying Goularte, his stepfather, and another occupant. One of the bullets struck the stepfather, though he survived the injuries.
Velasquez was arrested shortly afterward and charged with attempted murder along with several other felonies, including assault with a firearm and shooting at an occupied vehicle.
Sentencing and Show of Remorse
On March 24, 2024, Cain Velasquez was formally sentenced to five years in prison. Facing the possibility of decades behind bars, the judge opted for a lighter sentence, citing Velasquez’s remorseful statement in court and his lack of prior criminal history.
During the hearing, Velasquez addressed the court and acknowledged that he had made a terrible mistake.
“I understand the consequences of my actions. I want to express how deeply sorry I am. I let my emotions control me, and I’ll do everything in my power to make amends,” Velasquez told the judge.
His heartfelt plea, combined with the emotional nature of the case, likely played a role in the judge’s final decision.
Credit for Time Already Served
Although the sentence officially stands at five years, Cain is unlikely to serve the full term. The judge confirmed that Velasquez will receive credit for the time he spent in county jail—more than a year—as well as for time served under house arrest prior to his 2024 trial.
This means the former champion could be eligible for release significantly earlier, depending on factors such as good behavior, parole eligibility, and other legal provisions under California law.
The Man at the Center: Harry Goularte
The entire saga stems from allegations against Harry Goularte, who is accused of sexually abusing a minor relative of Velasquez. Goularte was released on bail shortly after his initial arrest in 2022, sparking widespread outrage and frustration within the MMA community and the public — many of whom supported Cain’s actions, despite their legality.
Goularte is still facing his own criminal trial, expected to take place later this year. If convicted, he could face significant prison time himself.
Support and Reactions from the MMA Community
Throughout the legal battle, Cain Velasquez received an outpouring of support from fans, fellow fighters, and UFC figures. Prominent names in MMA, including Dana White, Khabib Nurmagomedov, and Daniel Cormier, voiced their empathy and respect for Velasquez as a man and a father who reacted out of love and pain.
Even now, as Velasquez begins serving his sentence, social media remains flooded with messages of solidarity, urging fans not to forget the complex emotional circumstances that led to the shooting.
The Next Chapter for Cain Velasquez
Velasquez’s move to Wasco State Prison, a facility known for housing new inmates before they are classified and potentially transferred to other prisons, marks the start of his formal incarceration. The facility will assess his behavior, mental and physical health, and overall risk level before making long-term housing decisions.
Despite the situation, Velasquez remains a respected figure in the combat sports world, with many still viewing him as a protective father who acted out of desperation.
Final Thoughts
Cain Velasquez’s story continues to stir strong emotions — a tragic blend of justice, heartbreak, and the unthinkable circumstances no parent ever wants to face. As he begins serving his time, his supporters remain hopeful that the justice system will ultimately address both sides of the case, including the allegations that drove him to act.
Stay with us for updates on Cain Velasquez’s case and the upcoming trial of Harry Goularte.
