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, primarily known for his career in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). He achieved prominence as a two-time UFC Heavyweight Champion, establishing himself as a dominant force in the heavyweight division. His wrestling background and relentless fighting style made him a popular and respected figure in the MMA world.

Sections (5)

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

November 12, 2011: UFC Heavyweight Title Loss to Junior dos Santos

On November 12, 2011, Cain Velasquez lost his UFC Heavyweight title to Junior dos Santos via KO in the first round at UFC on Fox 1, after having reinjured his rotator cuff approximately a week before the fight.

2011: Shoulder Surgery and Recovery

In 2011, Cain Velasquez underwent successful surgery for a torn rotator cuff suffered during a fight and planned to return later that year.

October 21, 2014: Pulled out of Werdum Fight

On October 21, 2014, Cain Velasquez pulled out of his fight with Fabrício Werdum due to a torn meniscus and sprained MCL in his right knee.

October 23, 2014: Meniscus Surgery

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

June 13, 2015: Loss to Fabrício Werdum at UFC 188

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

February 6, 2016: Werdum Rematch Canceled

On February 6, 2016, the rematch between Cain Velasquez and Fabrício Werdum at UFC Fight Night 82 was canceled due to injuries to both fighters.

December 30, 2016: Failed Medical Approval for Werdum Rematch

On December 30, 2016, the Nevada State Athletic Commission did not approve Cain Velasquez to fight Fabrício Werdum at UFC 207 due to bone spurs on his back.

February 17, 2019: Knockout Loss Against Francis Ngannou

On February 17, 2019, Cain Velasquez lost to Francis Ngannou via knockout in less than thirty seconds of the first round at UFC on ESPN 1.

January 2020: Royal Rumble Plans Scrapped Due to Injury

In January 2020, WWE's plans to use Cain Velasquez at the Royal Rumble pay-per-view event were scrapped due to an injury.

April 2020: WWE Release

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

April 28, 2020: Released From WWE Contract

On April 28, 2020, Cain Velasquez was released from his WWE contract due to budget cuts resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic.

February 28, 2022: Alleged Shooting Incident in Santa Clara County

On February 28, 2022, Cain Velasquez allegedly shot at a man in Santa Clara County, California, hitting the man's stepfather instead, following allegations of child sexual abuse against Velasquez's son.

March 2022: Attempted Murder Charge

In March 2022, Cain Velasquez was charged with attempted murder and additional gun assault charges after a car chase and alleged shooting, missing the intended target but hitting his father instead.