San Jose, California — Former two-time Ultimate Fighting Championship heavyweight champion Cain Velasquez has been released from prison on parole after serving time related to a controversial shooting incident in 2022, multiple outlets reported on Sunday.
Velasquez, 43, announced the development on his social media accounts, confirming that he was granted early parole and released from custody on February 15, 2026. According to reports, the longtime MMA star may now pursue personal and professional interests outside of prison, including plans for a one-day breathwork seminar in the San Jose area.
Background: 2022 Shooting Incident and Sentence
Velasquez’s incarceration stems from a high-profile 2022 incident in which he pursued and fired a handgun at a vehicle containing a man he believed had molested his young child. During the pursuit, another individual — the accused man’s stepfather — was struck by a bullet but survived with non-life-threatening injuries. Velasquez was later arrested and charged with multiple felonies, including attempted murder.
In March 2025, a judge in Santa Clara County sentenced Velasquez to five years in prison, with credit given for time already served in jail and under house arrest, significantly reducing the period he was expected to spend behind bars.
Under California law, prisoners can receive credit for time already served — including in-custody and monitored house confinement — as well as for participation in rehabilitative programs. These reductions, combined with good behavior provisions, made Velasquez eligible for parole earlier than his original sentence indicated.
Velasquez’s Reaction and Future Plans
After his release, Velasquez took to social media to share his first post-prison plans and thank supporters. In his statement, he suggested hosting a holotropic breathing seminar in the San Jose region, describing breathwork as a tool that helped him “physically, mentally, and spiritually.”
“I’m exploring the idea of hosting a one-day holotropic breathing seminar in the San Jose area,” he wrote, adding that the practice has been significant to him.
Velasquez’s statement also marks a shift toward personal wellness and community engagement, rather than an immediate return to competition. At 43 years old, and having last fought professionally in 2019, Velasquez’s athletic comeback appears unlikely — but his next chapter outside the cage remains a topic of interest among fans and the martial arts community.
MMA Legacy and Polarizing Case
Velasquez remains one of the most influential heavyweight fighters in MMA history, known for his high-pressure wrestling, cardio, and title victories during his prime. His release has reignited discussion across the sport, with reactions ranging from support to criticism of the legal outcome.
The case itself — involving deeply emotional family circumstances — drew widespread attention and debate within both the MMA world and mainstream media. Velasquez previously acknowledged the recklessness of his actions in court, expressing remorse for how he handled the situation.
Legal Proceedings Still Unfolding
While Velasquez’s incarceration is now behind him, related legal matters continue. The man who was the alleged target of the 2022 shooting — Harry Goularte Jr. — is scheduled to stand trial later in 2026 on separate charges of lewd acts with a minor.
The broader saga has been among the most complex intersections of sports, personal tragedy, and the U.S. criminal justice system in recent years.
Roberto Villa is the CEO, Founder, Executive Writer, and Senior Editor of FightBook MMA. Has a passion for Combat Sports and is also a podcast host for Sitting Ringside. He’s also a former MMA fighter and Kickboxer. He’s also the main photographer for the 4CornersMafia Car Club.
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