Cain Velasquez is mentally prepared for his sentencing in court this Monday.
The former UFC heavyweight champion entered a no-contest plea in April after facing serious charges, including attempted murder and assault, related to a 2022 arrest.
Velasquez has largely refrained from public discussion about his situation. However, he recently spoke with former teammate Kyle Kingsbury, sharing what he could about the events.
“Regarding my actions, I know I didn`t handle things correctly,” Velasquez admitted on The Kyle Kingsbury Podcast. “Taking the law into our own hands is not the answer.”
“Having entered a no-contest plea, I am facing sentencing [on Monday]. I am aware of my dangerous actions towards others, including innocent people. I understand the gravity of what I did and am ready to take responsibility.”
“I will accept whatever the court decides is appropriate, with my head held high, without blaming others. I am responsible for my reaction and actions.”
Velasquez’s arrest stemmed from a February 2022 incident where he pursued a vehicle carrying Harry Goularte, the man accused of molesting Velasquez`s son at a daycare run by Goularte’s mother. During an 11-mile car chase, Velasquez fired multiple shots from a handgun, injuring Goularte’s stepfather, Paul Bender, who sustained non-life-threatening injuries.
Despite the ongoing trauma, Velasquez stated he has forgiven Goularte and hopes for healing for everyone involved.
“I cannot remain fixated on negativity,” Velasquez explained. “Even towards that family, despite their actions, I cannot harbor hate. I need to move forward, give love to my children and those around me. I must share this positivity. I cannot hold onto hate.”
“I wish them healing, whatever that may be. I understand they also have their own traumas. Spreading negativity isn`t right… I am relieved they are no longer operating as a daycare.”
“In my own time, I have forgiven them. My children are doing well. My son is incredibly strong and funny, my best friend. I am proud of him, and this situation will not define him. He and my daughter are destined for great things. I am blessed to share life with them. They teach me as much as I teach them. Being with them at this moment is sacred.”
Regardless of Monday’s sentencing outcome, Velasquez hopes the public learns the importance of open communication between parents and children, and awareness that such difficult situations exist and can affect anyone.
“My actions were wrong, I acknowledge that,” Velasquez stated. “I have paid and will continue to pay for my mistakes. I don’t know if I can ever fully repay it, but I can learn and help others.”
“The key takeaway is to trust your children and maintain open communication. Being consciously aware helps bring light to dark issues, especially those like this.”
