Julio César Chávez Defends Son Amid Legal Troubles
In a dramatic turn of events, renowned boxing icon Julio César Chávez has declared his intention to defend his son, Julio César Chávez Jr., as the younger Chávez faces legal troubles in the United States. The former world champion, whose own in-ring record boasts 115 fights, expressed his concerns in an interview with El Heraldo newspaper following his son’s arrest by immigration officers in Los Angeles. Chávez Jr., 39, was detained for allegedly overstaying his visa and providing false information on a green card application.
Serious Allegations and Family Support
Further complicating matters, Chávez Jr. is also facing serious allegations in Mexico, including active warrants related to arms and drug trafficking, with purported connections to the infamous Sinaloa Cartel. “The situation is complex, but we remain calm because we believe in my son’s innocence,” the elder Chávez emphasized. He insisted that while his son may have connections to various individuals, it does not equate to criminal behavior.
“He will be anything you want him to be, but he is not a criminal,”
he added emphatically.
Background of the Investigation
The investigation that led to Chávez Jr.’s legal complications reportedly began in 2019, prompted by a complaint from U.S. authorities targeting the Sinaloa Cartel and allegations associated with organized crime and human trafficking, as stated by Alejandro Gertz Manero, Mexico’s Attorney General. Chávez Sr. reflected on his past and noted that while he was acquainted with many people during his prime—especially given his time spent in Culiacán during the ’80s and ’90s—their actions did not implicate him in wrongdoing.
Legal Challenges and Future Steps
Chávez Jr.’s legal team has attempted to file multiple injunctions in Mexico, but these have not been successful due to his ongoing status in the United States. Chávez Sr. conveyed that legal representatives across the border are actively seeking to secure his son’s position, while expressing readiness to confront any legal issues under Mexican jurisdiction if necessary.
“We’ll battle under Mexican law if he’s sent back,”
he remarked.
Timing of Arrest Raises Questions
This family crisis unfolded just days after Chávez Jr. engaged in a boxing match against influencer-turned-fighter Jake Paul in Anaheim, California—a bout he ultimately lost. Questions have arisen regarding the timing of his arrest, particularly since officials from the Department of Homeland Security had resolved to apprehend him the day before the highly publicized event.
“Why was he allowed to fight? He has been tax compliant in the U.S. for three years, yet they accuse him of money laundering in Mexico,”
Chávez Sr. remarked in disbelief. He urged trust in the legal process as both he and his son navigate this challenging situation.
