Former UFC champion Cain Velasquez apologizes for 'reckless' actions that led to conviction

C. Velasquez preparing for UFC fight. Photo: Reproduction/Facebook ufcbrasil

The latest statement of Cain Velazquez before the trial, which sentenced him to five years in prison for attempted murder and other crimes related to the chase and shooting carried out by the former UFC champion in February 2022, had a tone of melancholy and regret.

Before Judge Arthur Bocanegra read out his sentence last Monday (24), the former UFC heavyweight champion had the opportunity to speak briefly in court. Velasquez said he was extremely remorseful and ashamed of all the actions that culminated in the five-year prison sentence.

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“I sincerely apologize. My actions were reckless and extremely dangerous. I am ashamed and remorseful for the way I behaved on the day of my crime. Other than that, I wish my family, the Goulartes and the community a safe healing,” the fighter declared.

Cain Velazquez was first arrested in February 2022 after speeding and firing shots at a car carrying Harry Goularte, a man accused of molesting the fighter's 4-year-old son. One of the shots non-lethally hit Paul Bender, the suspect's stepfather. After about nine months in jail, the former UFC champion was released on bail and awaited trial.

Last Monday (24), Cain was sentenced to five years in prison, but with the right to credit for the 1283 days already served, both in jail and under house arrest. With this, the tendency is that the former champion will remain incarcerated for less than two years.