Cain Velasquez is mentally prepared for whatever sentence he receives 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, stemming from his 2022 arrest.
Velasquez has largely refrained from public comment about the situation affecting him and his family. However, in a recent interview with former teammate Kyle Kingsbury, he shared some of his thoughts.
“Looking back at my actions, I realize that I didn`t handle things in the right way,” Velasquez admitted on The Kyle Kingsbury Podcast. “Taking the law into our own hands is never the answer.”
“I`ve already entered a no-contest plea, and I`m facing sentencing this Monday. I understand the gravity of my actions and the danger I caused to innocent people, not just those directly involved. I take full responsibility for what I did and am ready to face the consequences.”
“I will accept whatever the court decides is appropriate, holding my head high and without blaming anyone else. My actions were my own, and I reacted poorly.”
Velasquez was arrested in February 2022 after pursuing a vehicle in a high-speed chase. The vehicle contained Harry Goularte, accused of sexually abusing Velasquez’s son at a daycare run by Goularte`s mother. During the chase, Velasquez fired multiple shots from a handgun at the vehicle, accidentally wounding Goularte’s stepfather, Paul Bender, who sustained non-life-threatening injuries.
Despite the ongoing trauma his family has endured, Velasquez stated that he has forgiven Goularte and hopes for healing for everyone involved.
“I can`t remain stuck in anger or resentment,” Velasquez explained. “Even towards that family, despite what has happened, I can`t harbor hate. I need to move forward, give love to my children and those around me. I need to share that love with everyone. So, I cannot hold onto hate for them.”
“I wish them healing in whatever form that takes. I recognize they have their own traumas. Spreading negativity isn`t right. I am relieved they are no longer operating 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 who he is becoming. This situation will not define him. He and my daughter are destined for great things. I feel blessed to share my life with them. We support each other; they teach me as much as I teach them. I cherish these moments with them; they are sacred.”
Regardless of the sentencing outcome, Velasquez hopes the public learns the importance of open communication between parents and children and awareness that such difficult situations can happen to anyone.
“My actions were wrong, I understand that,” Velasquez reiterated. “I have already paid a price, and I am ready to pay whatever further price is required to make amends. While I may never fully repay the harm caused, I can learn from my mistakes and help others.”
“It’s a reminder that you never truly know someone`s struggles. Trust your children, maintain open communication with them. Raising awareness and shining light on these dark issues is crucial.”
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