Popular podcast host Joe Rogan is questioning the justice of the five-year prison sentence handed down to former UFC heavyweight champion Cain Velasquez.
Velasquez received the sentence in March after entering a no-contest plea to charges, including attempted murder, stemming from a 2022 incident. He was arrested after engaging in an 11-mile high-speed chase, pursuing a vehicle occupied by Harry Goularte, the man accused of sexually assaulting Velasquez`s son at a daycare run by Goularte`s mother. During the chase, Velasquez discharged his firearm multiple times at the vehicle, with one bullet hitting Paul Bender, Goularte`s stepfather, in the arm.
Rogan discussed the situation with former UFC featherweight champion Ilia Topuria on his podcast.
“Any father would have acted similarly,” Rogan stated. “If you aren`t a parent, you can`t comprehend the intense, murderous anger that would arise if someone molested your child. It`s a rage unlike anything else, an overwhelming fury only a parent can truly understand.”
Rogan continued, “If ever there was a case for temporary insanity, this is it. If anyone could justifiably claim temporary insanity, it`s a father pursuing someone who allegedly abused his son.”
“Everyone understands his reaction,” Rogan emphasized. “He shouldn`t be in jail. He`s not a threat to anyone. The fact he`s already served almost three years is awful. I simply can`t comprehend this situation.”
Rogan acknowledged the judge`s constraints in sentencing, noting the initial attempt to impose a 30-year sentence for attempted murder due to the danger of shooting while driving. However, he reiterated, “He was driven by understandable rage, and frankly, if he had killed the perpetrator, the world might be better off, in my opinion.”
Velasquez was credited with time served of 1,283 days before returning to prison to complete his five-year sentence.
Rogan, who recently commentated at UFC 314 in Miami, an event attended by former President Donald Trump, expressed hope that Trump might consider a pardon for Velasquez, potentially with the support of UFC CEO Dana White.
“I hope Trump pardons him,” Rogan said. “I hope Dana can facilitate something to help.”
