18 Facts About Cain Velasquez

Early Life and Background

Cain Velasquez, a name synonymous with mixed martial arts, has a fascinating backstory that shaped his journey to the top. Here are some intriguing facts about his early life and background.

1. Born on July 28, 1982, in Salinas, California, Cain Velasquez is of Mexican descent. His parents, Efraín and Isabel Velasquez, instilled a strong work ethic in him from a young age.

2. Velasquez’s father, Efraín, immigrated to the United States from Mexico as an undocumented worker. He later gained citizenship, setting an example of perseverance for his son.

3. Cain attended Kofa High School in Yuma, Arizona, where he excelled in wrestling. He won the 5A Arizona Wrestling Championship twice, showcasing his early talent.

4. After high school, Velasquez attended Iowa Central Community College. There, he won the NJCAA National Championship in wrestling, further solidifying his prowess on the mat.

5. Velasquez transferred to Arizona State University, where he continued to dominate in wrestling. He became a two-time All-American and placed fifth in the NCAA championships twice.

Rise in Mixed Martial Arts

Cain Velasquez’s transition from wrestling to mixed martial arts (MMA) marked the beginning of an illustrious career. His dedication and skill quickly made him a force to be reckoned with in the MMA world.

6. Velasquez made his professional MMA debut on October 7, 2006, against Jesse Fujarczyk. He won the fight by TKO in the first round, setting the tone for his future in the sport.

7. He joined the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) in 2008. His debut fight in the UFC was against Brad Morris, which he won by TKO in the first round.

8. Cain’s relentless fighting style earned him the nickname “Cardio Cain.” His ability to maintain high energy levels throughout his fights became one of his defining characteristics.

9. On October 23, 2010, Velasquez won the UFC Heavyweight Championship by defeating Brock Lesnar. This victory made him the first Mexican-American to win a UFC title.

10. Velasquez successfully defended his title against Junior dos Santos on December 29, 2012, in a rematch. He dominated the fight, winning by unanimous decision.

Personal Life and Interests

Beyond the octagon, Cain Velasquez leads a life filled with personal interests and commitments. His dedication to family and passion for various activities paint a fuller picture of the man behind the fighter.

11. Velasquez married Michelle Borquez in May 2011. The couple has two children, a daughter named Coral and a son named Cain Jr.

12. Fluent in Spanish, Velasquez often embraces his Mexican heritage. He has a “Brown Pride” tattoo on his chest, symbolizing his pride in his roots.

13. Cain is an avid fan of Mexican music, particularly banda and norteño genres. He often listens to these styles to get pumped up before fights.

14. Outside of fighting, Velasquez enjoys playing video games. He has mentioned that gaming helps him relax and unwind after intense training sessions.

Challenges and Comebacks

Cain Velasquez’s career has not been without its challenges. Injuries and setbacks have tested his resilience, but his comebacks have been nothing short of inspiring.

15. Velasquez has faced numerous injuries throughout his career, including shoulder, knee, and back issues. These injuries have led to multiple surgeries and extended periods away from the octagon.

16. Despite these setbacks, Cain made a triumphant return to the UFC on April 19, 2014, defeating Travis Browne by TKO. This victory showcased his determination and ability to overcome adversity.

17. Velasquez’s fight against Fabricio Werdum on June 13, 2015, for the UFC Heavyweight Championship ended in a loss. However, his willingness to fight in high-altitude conditions in Mexico City demonstrated his commitment to his heritage and fans.

18. In 2019, Velasquez made a surprising move to professional wrestling, signing with WWE. His debut match was against Brock Lesnar, bringing his career full circle in a new arena.

Cain Velasquez: A Legacy Beyond the Octagon

Cain Velasquez's journey from a small-town kid to a UFC heavyweight champion is nothing short of inspiring. His dedication, resilience, and sheer talent have left an indelible mark on the world of mixed martial arts. Beyond his impressive fight record, Cain's story is one of perseverance, overcoming injuries, and constantly pushing the limits. His influence extends beyond the octagon, inspiring countless fans and aspiring fighters. Whether it's his Mexican heritage, his wrestling background, or his humble beginnings, every aspect of Cain's life adds to his rich legacy. As we reflect on his career, it's clear that Cain Velasquez is more than just a fighter; he's a symbol of hard work, determination, and the relentless pursuit of greatness. His legacy will continue to inspire and motivate future generations in the world of sports and beyond.