Former UFC Heavyweight Champion Cain Velasquez Released from Prison

Former UFC heavyweight champion Cain Velasquez was released from prison on Sunday, February 15, 2026, after serving time for a 2022 shooting incident. Video of his release circulated online, as confirmed by ACD MMA [1].

Background of the Case

In August 2024, Velasquez pleaded no contest to charges including attempted murder, felony assault, and gun-related offenses [1]. The incident stemmed from February 2022 in Santa Clara County, California, where Velasquez pursued a vehicle carrying a man he believed had sexually abused his young son. During the pursuit, Velasquez discharged a handgun, and the man’s stepfather sustained non-life-threatening injuries to the arm and torso [1], [3].

Sentencing and Parole

Velasquez received a five-year prison sentence but was granted credit for time already served in custody and under house arrest [1]. This credit, along with eligibility for credit-earning opportunities while incarcerated, allowed him to become eligible for parole in early 2026 [1]. He served his full sentence as defined by law [1].

Future Plans: Holotropic Breathing Seminar

Shortly after his release, Velasquez announced plans for a potential public event in the San Jose area. He is considering hosting a one-day Holotropic Breathing seminar, focusing on guided breathwork, mental and emotional reset, stress relief, open discussion, and a meet-and-greet opportunity [3]. The seminar would be a paid, limited-capacity event, with details to be announced as he gauges interest. Velasquez has stated that breathwork has been instrumental in his physical, mental, and spiritual well-being and he wishes to share this experience with others [3].

About Cain Velasquez

Cain Ramírez Velasquez, born July 28, 1982, is an American former professional wrestler and mixed martial artist [1]. He is best known for his time in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), where he became a two-time UFC Heavyweight Champion [1]. He retired from mixed martial arts in 2019 and briefly pursued a professional wrestling career with Lucha Libre AAA Worldwide and WWE before being released from his WWE contract in 2020 due to budget cuts related to the COVID-19 pandemic [1].

His defense attorney, Renee Hessling, stated that Velasquez is not currently available for a statement [1].