The Mexican boxer was detained by U.S. authorities over alleged ties to organized crime.

Just days after his return to the ring in a highly publicized bout against influencer Jake Paul in California, Mexican boxer Julio César Chávez Jr. was arrested on Wednesday by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). According to a statement released Thursday by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Chávez Jr. is now undergoing deportation proceedings due to alleged links to organized crime and immigration violations.

Accused of cartel ties and fraudulent immigration filings

The son of boxing legend Julio César Chávez entered the United States on a tourist visa in August 2023, which expired in February 2024. According to DHS, the fighter provided false information in a recent immigration application and is subject to an active arrest warrant in Mexico for alleged involvement in organized crime, as well as the trafficking of firearms, ammunition, and explosives.

Mexico Attorney General’s Office (FGR) confirmed Thursday that an arrest warrant has been in place since March 2023. The FGR stated it has been notified of the detention and has begun the formal extradition process to bring Chávez Jr. back to Mexico.

Attempted to obtain residency through marriage

In April 2024, Chávez Jr. applied for permanent residency in the U.S., citing his marriage to an American citizen. However, DHS officials claim that his wife had previous ties to the Sinaloa Cartel through a past relationship with one of the late sons of Joaquín “El Chapo” Guzmán, the cartel’s former leader.

He was allowed to re-enter the country on January 4, but U.S. authorities determined he was unlawfully present and could be deported as early as June 27, according to the DHS statement.

Unsuccessful comeback fight against Jake Paul

Just one day after receiving the deportation determination, Chávez Jr. stepped into the ring to face Jake Paul in Anaheim, California. It was his first fight in over four years. Despite receiving a warm reception from Mexican fans in attendance, he suffered a unanimous decision loss to the YouTuber-turned-boxer.

Now 39 years old, Chávez Jr. holds a professional record of 54 wins (34 by knockout), 7 losses, and 1 draw. His future, both in and out of the ring, remains uncertain as he faces serious legal challenges in the United States and a possible extradition to Mexico.