Video shows Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. detained and chained by ICE
Chavez, 39, was taken into ICE custody for what the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) says was due to an active warrant out of Mexico "for his involvement in organized crime and trafficking firearms, ammunition, and explosives," as well as his citizenship status.
FOX 11 Los Angeles posted a video of the Studio City, Calif. arrest hours after it took place. It shows Chavez cuffed with his hands behind his back as masked individuals place a chain behind his waist and secure it behind his back.
Chavez is expected to be deported, though it's unclear when that will happen.
"Chavez is a Mexican citizen who has an active arrest warrant in Mexico for his involvement in organized crime and trafficking firearms, ammunition, and explosives," the statement read.
DHS said Chavez entered the country legally in August 2023 but his B2 tourist visa expired in February 2024. It added Chavez applied for a lawful permanent resident status based on his marriage to a citizen, who previously had a relationship with the son of cartel leader Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman.
In December 2024, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services referred the matter to ICE, calling Chavez a "public safety threat." In January 2025, Chavez was allowed to reenter the country with temporary parole permission.
After what DHS called "multiple fraudulent statements on his application to become a lawful permanent resident," it designated his citizenship status unlawful and him removable on June 27.
Chavez, 39, is the son of boxing legend Julio Cesar Chavez. While his come-up attracted eyeballs from around the combat sports world and beyond, Chavez has had an up-and-down career in and out of the ring. After a 46-0 start, Chavez has gone 8-7. His unanimous decision loss to Paul was only his second fight since 2021.
Chavez has a history of arrests for DUI, driving without a license and various weapon illegalities.
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