Boxer Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. Deported to Mexico After ICE Arrest
Julio Cesar Chavez Jr., the renowned former world champion boxer, has been deported to Mexico and subsequently incarcerated following his arrest by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents in Los Angeles last month. This arrest stemmed from allegations of his illegal presence in the United States and discrepancies in his green card application.
At 39 years old, Chavez Jr. faces serious accusations in Mexico, including links to organized crime and firearms trafficking, particularly in relation to the notorious Sinaloa Cartel, as indicated by the Department of Homeland Security. Following his deportation, Chavez Jr. was transferred to a prison facility near Hermosillo, located in the northern state of Sonora, according to sources familiar with the situation.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum confirmed the deportation during a recent press conference, indicating that local officials were informed of his return to Mexico. Alejandro Gertz Manero, Mexico’s Attorney General, stated that the investigation into Chavez Jr. began in 2019, with a formal arrest warrant issued in March 2023. Despite the allegations, members of Chavez’s family and his legal counsel have vehemently denied any connections to criminal organizations.
The boxer was apprehended in early July, shortly after participating in a highly publicized boxing match against Jake Paul. Reports from the Department of Homeland Security revealed that Chavez Jr. had entered the U.S. on a tourist visa in August 2023; however, this visa had expired by February of the previous year. Despite being flagged as a “public safety threat,” he reportedly entered the U.S. multiple times without incident.
Investigators have also accused Chavez of making false statements while seeking permanent residency status. Plans for his arrest were formulated on June 27, just a day before his well-publicized bout with Paul, leading to questions about the timing and motives behind the arrest. There remains a notable absence of clear rationale regarding why authorities delayed his apprehension until after the fight.
In addition to the current allegations, Chavez Jr. carries a criminal record that dates back to 2012, which includes a conviction for driving under the influence. More recently, in January 2024, he was charged with possession of firearms, specifically two AR-style ghost rifles.
Chavez Jr. is the son of legendary boxer Julio Cesar Chavez, whose legacy looms large in the sport. As of now, the elder Chavez has not publicly addressed his son’s legal troubles or deportation.
