Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. Arrested by ICE for Deportation Just Days After Losing Jake Paul Fight
Julio Cesar Chavez Jr., son of Boxing legend Julio Cesar Chavez, has had a boxing career of his own plagued by legal troubles, substance abuse, and unfulfilled potential. Once hailed as the heir to his legendary father's boxing throne, the former WBC middleweight champion had the chance at redemption if he were to defeat YouTube star-turned-fighter Jake Paul on June 29.
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Unfortunately for Chavez Jr., Paul was victorious and gained a WBA ranking in the process.
Just four days after losing his high-profile boxing match to Paul, Mexican Chavez Jr. was arrested by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in Studio City, California, on July 2. The 39-year-old now faces deportation to Mexico, where an active arrest warrant accuses him of involvement in organized crime and weapons trafficking.
He was arrested for overstaying his B2 tourist visa, which expired in February 2024. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) alleged he was also arrested due to his ties to the Sinaloa Cartel, a drug-trafficking organization designated as a terrorist group by the Trump administration.
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The DHS posted on X news of Chavez Jr.'s arrest along with a chilling message, which read, 'Under President Trump, NO ONE is above the law—including world-famous athletes. Our message to any cartel affiliates in the U.S. is clear: We will find you and you will face consequences. The days of unchecked cartel violence are over.'
Chavez Jr.'s attorney, Michael Goldstein, spoke to Associated Press and accused authorities of using the boxer's fame to stoke fear in immigrant communities.
Chavez is now in ICE custody awaiting expedited removal to Mexico, where he could face prosecution on organized crime charges. His deportation would close a tumultuous chapter for a boxer whose life, inside and outside the ring, has been a mix of fleeting glory and self-inflicted turmoil.
Related: Jake Paul's Ranking Exposes Everything Wrong With Modern Boxing
Related: Jake Paul's Most Accomplished Opponent Yet Issues Stern Warning Ahead of June 28 Boxing Match
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jul 3, 2025, where it first appeared.
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