Mexican boxing icon Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. has been detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents in Los Angeles, with officials planning to deport him to Mexico. According to U.S. authorities, the 39-year-old former middleweight champion, who faced defeat against social media star Jake Paul just days prior, has an existing arrest warrant in Mexico for involvement in organized crime.
Officials have stated that Chavez Jr. is allegedly connected to the infamous Sinaloa drug cartel, a claim that has been categorically denied by his legal team. A spokesperson for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) highlighted that under President Trump's administration, even high-profile athletes are not exempt from legal scrutiny.
Chavez Jr. was arrested in Studio City as he was still reeling from his recent boxing bout against Paul, held just miles away in Anaheim. The DHS described Chavez as a "criminal illegal alien" currently undergoing expedited removal processing. It was reported that he faces serious charges in Mexico, including firearm trafficking.
This arrest has drawn attention not only for his boxing legacy—being the son of renowned champion Julio Cesar Chavez Sr.—but also for his history of legal issues, including several arrests concerning weapon possessions. Past violations have included illegal firearm possession and driving under the influence, among others.
His lawyer has dismissed the accusations as "outrageous" and emphasized that these claims have come as a shock to the athlete's team. Just weeks before his arrest, Chavez Jr. expressed concerns over increased immigration raids, noting the atmosphere of fear impacting the Latin community.
The statements regarding heightened immigration enforcement come amidst broader discussions surrounding immigrants' rights and treatment in the United States. Chanting for justice, Chavez Jr. spoke about the implications of current policies, hoping to avoid deportation amidst these turbulent political conditions.
