Ex-UFC Heavyweight Champion Cain Velasquez Released on Early Parole
Former UFC Heavyweight Champion Cain Velasquez has been granted early parole and was officially released from prison on February 15th.
Velasquez, 43, had been sentenced to five years in prison in March 2025. His sentence included credit for time already served following his February 2022 arrest. In total, he spent nearly a year behind bars after sentencing, with additional time previously served in county jail factored into the decision.
😭😭😭 Welcome back Cain! Wishing you and your family happiness and healing!! https://t.co/SQUxNGRNWV
— Ronda Rousey (@RondaRousey) February 15, 2026
The Case & Sentencing
Cain Velasquez was serving time on charges related to the attempted murder of a man accused of molesting his young son at a daycare facility.
Velasquez was involved in a high-speed car chase targeting the accused individual. During the pursuit, Velasquez allegedly fired multiple shots at the vehicle transporting the man. However, instead of striking the intended target, the man’s stepfather was hit, who sustained non-life-threatening injuries.
The case drew significant attention from both the mixed martial arts community and the public. Many fighters and fans voiced support for Velasquez while also acknowledging the seriousness of the charges.
Release & Next Chapter
Cain Velasquez was granted early parole and released from prison based on time served and his participation in rehabilitative programs while incarcerated.
Here's the moment Cain Velasquez reunited with his family
— Nolan King (@mma_kings) February 15, 2026
(Video courtesy of Mariachi Jalisciense) pic.twitter.com/g3AwgeYtrD
Upon his release, he was greeted by family members and a mariachi band, marking an emotional moment for the former champion as he begins the next chapter of his life. Velasquez, a two-time UFC Heavyweight Champion, remains one of the most accomplished heavyweights in the sport’s history.
About Post Author
Connor Rogowsky
Connor “Rags” Rogowsky is a Co-Founder of The Scrap, where he contributes MMA content and occasionally delves into the world of pro wrestling. A former collegiate athlete in football and track, Connor pairs his sports experience with academic expertise to the pieces he writes. He holds a Master of Science in Psychology from Southern New Hampshire University.
Related Posts:
Additional Content
Full UFC 330 Betting Guide: Can Ian Garry Dethrone Islam Makhachev?
UFC 330 is finally here, bringing two title fights and an intriguing card from top to bottom. Headlining the event...
Everything You Need to Know About UFC 330: Makhachev vs. Machado Garry
Get ready for another action-packed night of MMA. UFC 330 is set to deliver fireworks on Saturday, August 15th at the Xfinity Mobile Arena in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania....
UFC 330: Main Card Predictions
The UFC main card features four compelling matchups, from a championship clash between Islam Makhachev and Ian Machado Garry to...
Zilla Fatu Officially Arrives in WWE, Immediately Targets NXT Championship
The Samoan Dynasty just got even bigger in WWE. After months of speculation surrounding his future, Zilla Fatu has officially...
DWCS Season 10: Week 1 Preview & Predictions
Week 1 of Dana White’s Contender Series Season 10 is here, and the stakes couldn’t be higher. Ten hungry prospects...
UFC 330 First Look: Early Betting Value on Makhachev vs. Machado Garry
UFC 330 fight week is here. As the countdown to Saturday’s action begins, it’s time to take a look at...
