The former UFC heavyweight champion, Cain Velasquez, has been sentenced to five years in prison after pleading No Contest in his attempted murder case. This concludes his lengthy legal ordeal, with credit for time served likely meaning he will spend less than two additional years incarcerated. We delve into the details of Velasquez`s sentencing and also examine the fallout from UFC London, specifically Sean Brady`s dominant victory over Leon Edwards.
Cain Velasquez`s Sentencing: A Legal Perspective
A reader named Mike Heck inquired about a legal expert`s reaction to the Cain Velasquez sentencing.
From a legal standpoint, and drawing on past experience in the legal field, it`s clear that engaging in a car chase and firing shots recklessly into another vehicle will lead to jail time. While the situation surrounding Velasquez`s son is undeniably tragic, resorting to vigilante actions like a car chase and attempted shooting is against the law. Society cannot function if individuals take the law into their own hands, especially against those not yet convicted of a crime.
In 2022, Velasquez pursued Harry Goularte, accused of molesting Velasquez`s son, in an 11-mile high-speed chase. He fired multiple shots at Goularte`s vehicle, instead wounding Goularte`s stepfather. He was arrested shortly after.
Despite public support for Velasquez, his actions were legally problematic. Even if one sympathizes with his motivations, endangering innocent bystanders with reckless gunfire is unacceptable. It is fortunate no one was more seriously injured during the chase and shooting.
Considering the potential for a much harsher sentence (prosecutors sought 30 years), the five-year sentence, potentially reduced to around one year of further imprisonment, seems like a reasonable compromise given the circumstances. It acknowledges the severity of the crime while considering mitigating factors.
Sean Brady`s Dominance and Future in Welterweight Division
Addressing the question of whether Sean Brady is poised to take the belt from Belal Muhammad, the answer is not straightforward.
Brady`s performance at UFC London was indeed impressive. He dominated Leon Edwards, both physically and mentally. Edwards appeared defeated by the third round, evidenced by a desperate takedown attempt despite Brady`s ground superiority. Brady`s victory was decisive and demonstrated his ability to break down opponents.
However, a previous fight between Brady and Belal Muhammad suggests a less favorable matchup for Brady. Muhammad decisively defeated Brady in their prior encounter. While Brady has undoubtedly improved, Muhammad has also continued to perform well and arguably laid the groundwork for Brady`s victory over Edwards.
Brady`s path to victory relies heavily on securing takedowns. While this makes him a threat, his striking needs development, and some welterweights are difficult to take down. Stylistically, Muhammad presents a challenging matchup for Brady, making a rematch likely to favor Muhammad unless Brady demonstrates significant changes.
Potential Matchups: Rakhmonov, Edwards, and Ulberg
Speculation about potential fights like Shavkat Rakhmonov vs. Sean Brady or Leon Edwards moving up to middleweight to face Israel Adesanya are considered unfavorable ideas.
Rakhmonov was already slated for a title fight before his opponent`s injury. He deserves to wait for his title shot rather than taking another fight. Similarly, Brady has earned a high ranking after defeating Edwards and should also be considered for a title opportunity or a backup fighter role, rather than being put in another contender fight immediately.
Regarding Leon Edwards at middleweight against Adesanya, it is deemed a poor matchup. Edwards lacks the size for sustained success at middleweight, and a fight with Adesanya is predicted to be uneventful and unengaging for fans.
Legacy Comparison: Leon Edwards vs. Michael Bisping
Comparing Leon Edwards` legacy to Michael Bisping`s reveals an interesting distinction: Edwards is arguably the greater fighter, but Bisping is more historically significant for British MMA.
Bisping is a pioneer of British MMA, achieving significant recognition even before winning the UFC title. He remains the most recognizable British MMA fighter. However, Edwards has arguably achieved more in terms of accomplishments. Bisping often lost against top-tier opponents and struggled to secure a title shot for years. Edwards, despite a reputation for a less exciting style, consistently won major fights, including against top-ranked opponents.
Edwards defeated a legendary fighter to win the welterweight title and has defended it twice. Bisping`s title reign was shorter and against less formidable opponents. Edwards is likely the more accomplished fighter overall.
A fight between Edwards and Jorge Masvidal is suggested as a potentially entertaining matchup, especially since Edwards is currently outside the immediate title picture. Masvidal could be a motivating opponent for Edwards.
Carlos Ulberg`s Performance and Light Heavyweight Division
Carlos Ulberg`s narrow decision win over Jan Blachowicz was underwhelming, but not entirely Ulberg`s fault. Blachowicz is a difficult opponent to look impressive against due to his solid defense and well-rounded skillset. Even top light heavyweights have had close, unimpressive fights against him.
However, Ulberg`s performance was still lackluster, especially considering Blachowicz`s age and recent injury. Ulberg`s unwillingness to take risks in the fight raises concerns about his title aspirations. Fighters who avoid risks rarely win titles, though they may defend titles they already hold. The light heavyweight division is currently considered unpredictable, meaning anyone could potentially contend for the belt.
Thank you for reading. Questions for future discussions can be sent via social media. See you next week.
