Khabib Nurmagomedov has 3-word message for idol Cain Velasquez’s five-year prison sentence 

UFC Hall of Famer and former champion Khabib Nurmagomedov backs Cain Velasquez after a recent five-year prison sentence.

Khabib Nurmagomedov has 3-word message for idol Cain Velasquez’s five-year prison sentence 

Khabib Nurmagomedov reacts to Cain Velasquez’s five-year prison sentence (via MMA Fighting/X)

UFC legend Cain Velasquez has received a five-year prison sentence after his 2022 shooting incident involving an alleged child molester. The case sparked widespread debate, with many believing Velasquez acted out of deep emotional distress to protect his loved ones. Following the verdict, numerous MMA fighters, including former lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov, publicly expressed their support for Velasquez and his family.

Velasquez’s sentencing occurred on March 24 in Santa Clara County, and the judge had tears in his eyes. He was given a few minutes to meet with his family before being taken away to prison. Nurmagomedov and Velasquez are very close friends from their time at the AKA Gym. After knowing about the sentence, the ‘Eagle’ shared a heartfelt message for Velasquez on social media. 

Stay Strong Lion 

Khabib Nurmagomedov via Instagram story 

In February 2022, Velasquez engaged in an intense 11-mile high-speed car chase through San Jose, California, pursuing Harry Goularte. Goularte was accused of molesting Velasquez’s young son at a childcare facility, sparking the former UFC champion’s emotionally driven pursuit for justice. During the confrontation, Velasquez fired multiple shots from his .40-caliber handgun, attempting to strike Goularte but ending up missing his target.

Instead, the bullets struck Goularte’s stepfather, Paul Bender, causing non-life-threatening injuries, though the intended target remained completely unharmed. Authorities apprehended Velasquez shortly after the incident, charging him with 10 serious offenses, including attempted murder and multiple firearm-related crimes. Velasquez chose not to contest the charges, fully accepting responsibility for his actions and acknowledging the legal consequences.

UFC reaction to Cain Velasquez’s 5-year prison sentence 

Cain Velasquez’s attorney, Renee Hessling, spoke about the situation to the press and described it as ‘bittersweet’. She understood the complexities of the situation but showed optimism about Velasquez’s future. Apart from the five-year sentence, the court has given the fighter credit time, which may reduce his time behind bars. 

Cain Velasquez meeting his family after the sentence
Cain Velasquez meeting his family after the sentence (via X)

Velasquez was a dominant UFC heavyweight champion, known for his relentless cardio, elite wrestling, and devastating striking ability. He became a two-time UFC heavyweight champion, defeating Brock Lesnar and Junior dos Santos, cementing his place among the division’s greatest. Velasquez’s legacy in MMA remains strong, influencing future heavyweights with his aggressive fighting style mixed with wrestling dominance. 

Given his contribution to UFC, many individuals from the company shared their views on the situation, supporting the fighter for his actions. Many called for Dana White to talk with his friend and the current US President Donald Trump to intervene. This sentiment was consistent throughout the MMA community, which has backed Velasquez from the very beginning. 

The relationship between Khabib Nurmagomedov and Cain Velasquez

After the incident took place in 2022, many from UFC publicly showed their support for Cain Velasquez. Kamaru Usman, Henry Cejudo, Dana White, etc. wrote letters in support of Velasquez after his arrest for attempted murder. Fighters and MMA figures emphasized his character, describing him as a family man and a positive influence. White called him a “good person,” while others pleaded for leniency. 

Cain Velasquez and Khabib Nurmagomedov at the AKA gym
Cain Velasquez and Khabib Nurmagomedov at the AKA gym (X)

Many in the MMA community also wore “Free Cain” shirts and publicly voiced support for his release from bail. Khabib Nurmagomedov gave interviews where he backed Velasquez for his actions and condemned Harry Goularte. Nurmagomedov and Velasquez both trained under Coach Javier Mendez and have immense respect for each other. 

There are multiple videos of them training and having fun, showcasing their wholesome relationship. Nurmagomedov shares a similar relationship with former UFC double champion Daniel Cormier, who was also a part of AKA gym. The bromance between DC and Nurmagomedov is incredibly famous in the MMA community. The support and care shown by the members of AKA gym was a true testament to their mutual respect toward each other.