Boxing icon Julio Cesar Chaves Jr. is suspected of being involved in criminal activities. © APA/afp / PATRICK T. FALLON

Deported and imprisoned: former boxing world champion under suspicion

Former world boxing champion Julio César Chávez Jr. from Mexico has been deported from the USA.

August 20, 2025

From: dpa

According to consistent media reports, the 39-year-old was initially arrested in the US for overstaying his visa and lying on a green card application, and was subsequently extradited to Mexico by US authorities. In his home country, Chávez was reportedly taken to a prison in the state of Sonora. His deportation was postponed. USA Today confirmed by Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum.

Chávez allegedly made false statements about his permanent residence in the United States. He is also suspected of having ties to organized crime. According to the New York Post, his lawyer and family deny the allegations. He is also suspected of arms and explosives trafficking.

Just a few weeks ago, Chávez, who won the middleweight world title in 2011, had an exhibition fight against influencer Jake Paul. Shortly thereafter, he was reportedly arrested by the immigration authorities (ICE).