Velasquez open to MMA comeback but says financial offer must be exceptional

Cain Velasquez says a return to MMA is not out of the question, but the former UFC heavyweight champion is making clear that money — not matchups or marquee billing — would be the only factor that gets him back in the cage.

Speaking on Josh Thomson’s podcast after appearing at the Ronda Rousey vs. Gina Carano card, the 43-year-old was candid about his lack of motivation to compete again. “The money has to make me want to do it,” Velasquez said. “Because I’ve said this before, I don’t want to do it. I have other interests now. But the money really has to make me want to do it and I don’t think anybody’s willing to pay that.”

Velasquez has not fought professionally since a knockout loss to Francis Ngannou in February 2019, a defeat that effectively ended his competitive career. Despite injuries limiting his availability throughout his time in the UFC, he is widely considered one of the most gifted heavyweights the sport has produced.

His absence from competition has been shaped by more than just retirement. In 2022, Velasquez was arrested after a car chase and shooting incident involving Harry Goularte, a man accused of molesting his young son. Velasquez entered a no-contest plea on attempted murder charges and served nearly 11 months in prison, receiving widespread support from within the fight community, including a letter written to the courts by UFC CEO Dana White.

Now back home with his family, Velasquez has been spending time at American Kickboxing Academy in San Jose, the gym where he trained throughout his career, coaching and mentoring younger fighters. He acknowledged the personal reward that comes with that role but stopped short of calling it a long-term calling.

“For me, I get so into what I’m doing that it doesn’t do it for me anymore,” he said of coaching. “There’s a part to it I really do love, to see the growth and the good times and even just the learning experience. But I’ve had now other interests are calling me.”

Velasquez was equally clear that any hypothetical return would not be driven by the appeal of a specific opponent or a high-profile fight card. The financial terms alone would determine whether he steps back into training camp — and on current evidence, he is sceptical that offer is coming.