Challenges in the Life of Cain Velasquez in a Detailed Timeline

A closer look at the defining struggles that shaped Cain Velasquez's life and career.

Cain Velasquez is an American former professional wrestler and mixed martial artist, best known for his career in the UFC's heavyweight division. He achieved significant success, becoming a two-time UFC Heavyweight Champion. His wrestling background and aggressive fighting style made him a formidable competitor during his time in mixed martial arts.

Sections (5)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals

November 12, 2011: Velasquez Loses Title to Dos Santos at UFC on Fox 1

On November 12, 2011, Cain Velasquez lost his title to Junior dos Santos via KO in the first round at UFC on Fox 1. It was later revealed that both fighters had injuries leading up to the fight.

2011: Velasquez Shoulder Injury

In 2011, Cain Velasquez suffered a torn rotator cuff during his fight with Brock Lesnar, requiring surgery and sidelining him for several months.

October 21, 2014: Velasquez Withdraws From UFC 180

On October 21, 2014, Cain Velasquez withdrew from his scheduled bout at UFC 180 due to a torn meniscus and sprained MCL in his right knee.

October 23, 2014: Velasquez Undergoes Knee Surgery

On October 23, 2014, Cain Velasquez underwent successful surgery to repair his torn meniscus.

June 13, 2015: Velasquez Loses Title to Werdum at UFC 188

On June 13, 2015, at UFC 188, Cain Velasquez lost his fight against Fabrício Werdum via guillotine choke submission in the third round.

February 6, 2016: Rematch with Werdum Cancelled

On February 6, 2016, the expected rematch between Cain Velasquez and Fabricio Werdum at UFC Fight Night 82 was cancelled after both fighters withdrew due to injuries.

December 30, 2016: Velasquez Deemed Unfit to Fight at UFC 207

On December 30, 2016, the Nevada State Athletic Commission deemed Cain Velasquez unfit to compete at UFC 207 due to bone spurs on his back.

February 17, 2019: Velasquez Loses to Ngannou at UFC on ESPN 1

On February 17, 2019, Cain Velasquez headlined UFC's inaugural event on ESPN, UFC on ESPN 1 against Francis Ngannou and lost the fight via knockout in the first round.

January 2020: WWE Royal Rumble Plans Scrapped Due to Injury

In January 2020, WWE had planned to use Cain Velasquez at their Royal Rumble pay-per-view event, but the idea was scrapped due to an injury.

April 2020: WWE Releases Velasquez

In April 2020, Velasquez was released from his WWE contract due to budget cuts resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic.

February 28, 2022: Velasquez Involved in Shooting Incident

On February 28, 2022, Cain Velasquez was involved in a shooting incident in Santa Clara County, California. Velasquez shot at a vehicle containing Harry Goularte Jr., who was accused of sexually abusing Velasquez's son, and unintentionally hit Goularte's stepfather.

March 2022: Velasquez Charged with Attempted Murder

In March 2022, Cain Velasquez was charged with attempted murder and additional gun assault charges after a car chase and alleged shooting at a man accused of molesting his son. The man's stepfather was hit instead.

April 12, 2022: Continuance granted for plea hearing

On April 12, 2022, the judge granted a continuance until May 6 for Cain Velasquez's plea hearing.

June 2022: Goularte pleaded not guilty to related criminal charges

In June 2022, Harry Goularte pleaded not guilty to related criminal charges.

June 29, 2022: Civil lawsuit filed against Harry Goularte Jr.

On June 29, 2022, it was reported that a civil lawsuit against Harry Goularte Jr. was filed on behalf of Velasquez's son, claiming sexual molestation.