Cain Velasquez’s Legal Battles: Coach Supports Fighter’s Actions

WASCO, Calif. — Cain Velasquez’s coach and longtime friend is standing firm in his support for the former UFC heavyweight champion following his legal troubles. In March, Velasquez pleaded no contest to several charges, including attempted murder, stemming from a violent incident in 2022.

In the incident, Velasquez, 42, pursued Harry Goularte, a man accused of molesting his son. During a high-speed chase, Velasquez fired multiple rounds from a .40-caliber handgun at Goularte’s vehicle, injuring his stepfather, Paul Bender. Velasquez was sentenced to prison, which included time served.

His coach, Javier Mendez, expressed his belief that Velasquez should not be behind bars. “They got it wrong,” Mendez said. “Yeah, there were things he did that were wrong, but a father is protecting his children.” Mendez emphasized that Velasquez’s actions stemmed from a moment of lost control, supported by a recent brain function test revealing his lack of impulsivity.

Mendez stated that if most fathers were in Velasquez’s position, they might react similarly, adding, “I would have killed the guy myself. You mess with my child? I’m sorry, it’s a whole different ballgame.”

Currently incarcerated at Wasco State Prison, Velasquez could be eligible for parole in March 2026. His parole date may be adjusted based on his behavior and participation in prison programs. Mendez remains optimistic about Velasquez’s time in prison, noting that he has maintained a positive attitude and has been well-liked by inmates and guards alike.

Mendez also expressed concern for Velasquez’s son, who is set to testify against Goularte in court. “That part hurts me the most,” Mendez said. “His son doesn’t know why his father isn’t with him during this difficult time.”

Meanwhile, Goularte’s case is progressing, with a scheduled court appearance in June, and the Velasquez family has filed a civil suit against Goularte and the daycare where the alleged abuse occurred.

Mendez criticized the prosecutor’s aggressive stance, stating, “The prosecutor wanted to give him 30 years. He wasn’t a menace to anybody. If you know Cain Velasquez, you know he’s one of the good guys.”