Cain Velasquez has spoken publicly for the first time since regaining his freedom, expressing gratitude for the overwhelming support he received during one of the most difficult periods of his life.
The former two-time heavyweight champion recently reunited with his family after serving time in prison. Now, Velasquez says he is slowly adjusting to life outside and focusing on the simple moments he missed the most.
“Now that it’s been a couple of weeks since my release, I’ve had some time to kind of get back into things,” Velasquez said in a message shared on Instagram.
“Get back into a normal way of life. Get used to just doing the normal things. Being at home with the family. Being there for my kids, and I just wanted to thank everybody for their love and support. Your words of inspiration, of encouragement, constantly just lifted me up.”
Velasquez also posted a caption alongside the video message, acknowledging the people who stood by him throughout the ordeal.
“Blessed to be out, thank you to all for the love and support; you all have lifted me up so high,” Velasquez wrote. “Grateful for all the understanding thus far and I look forward to a road of service.”
The former champion was originally sentenced to five years in prison, though he received credit for 1,283 days already served. His legal troubles stemmed from a February 2022 incident involving a high-speed chase and shooting.
Velasquez fired at a vehicle carrying Harry Goularte, who had been accused of molesting Velasquez’s young son. During the incident, Goularte’s stepfather was injured.
Throughout the case, Velasquez received strong backing from many figures in the MMA community.
Among those who voiced support was Sean Strickland, who publicly defended the former champion’s actions.
“Law or not, he did the right thing,” Strickland said while discussing the situation.
Meanwhile, Goularte continues to await trial on a felony charge of committing lewd acts with a minor. He is currently out on bail.
For now, Velasquez is focused on rebuilding his life and spending time with his loved ones. The former champion is currently on parole and still faces a restitution hearing scheduled for June 3, which will determine compensation owed to Goularte’s stepfather.
Despite the legal process continuing, Velasquez says he is grateful simply to be back home.
“I just wanted to take this time to thank everybody for their constant support,” Velasquez said. “You have no idea what your words and encouragement and love have meant to me and my family. Just thank you.”
As Velasquez settles back into daily life, the MMA legend appears determined to move forward while staying close to the people who supported him through his darkest chapter.
