- Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. was arrested on July 2, 2025, in Studio City, California, by ICE.
- He is accused of ties to the Sinaloa Cartel and has an active arrest warrant in Mexico.
- Chavez filed for U.S. permanent residency in 2024 through marriage to a U.S. citizen linked to the cartel.
- DHS flagged Chavez as a public safety threat but did not prioritize his removal under the Biden administration.
- ICE is now processing Chavez for expedited removal from the U.S.
— Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents arrested Mexican boxer Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. in Studio City, California, on July 2, 2025, citing his alleged ties to the Sinaloa Cartel and a standing criminal warrant issued in Mexico.
According to a Department of Homeland Security (DHS) press release, Chavez is being processed for expedited removal from the United States. He is accused of participating in organized crime and trafficking firearms, ammunition, and explosives.
From Boxing Ring to ICE Custody
Chavez, the son of legendary boxer Julio Cesar Chavez Sr., entered the United States legally in August 2023 on a B2 tourist visa, which expired in February 2024. In April 2024, he submitted a green card application through marriage to a U.S. citizen, who was previously in a relationship with a deceased son of Joaquin “El Chapo” Guzman.
Julio Cesar Chavez Jr., Mexican boxer (Photo : DHS)
Despite an internal DHS referral in December 2024 classifying Chavez as an “egregious public safety threat,” records show the Biden administration did not list him as a removal priority. On January 4, 2025, Chavez was paroled back into the U.S. at the San Ysidro port of entry.
However, after officials discovered multiple fraudulent statements on his residency application, Chavez was determined to be in the U.S. illegally and flagged for deportation on June 27, 2025.
DHS: “No One Is Above the Law”
McLaughlin emphasized that under President Trump, immigration enforcement efforts are being revived: “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’s U.S. and Mexican Criminal Record
- January 22, 2012: Arrested by California Highway Patrol for DUI and driving without a license. Convicted and sentenced to 13 days in jail and 36 months’ probation.
- January 14, 2023: Mexican judge issued warrant for Chavez for trafficking weapons, explosives, and participation in organized crime.
- January 7, 2024: Arrested by LAPD for illegal possession of assault weapons and manufacturing/importing short-barreled rifles. Convicted in California court.
ICE’s investigation into Chavez’s U.S. residency application also revealed misrepresentations and concealed criminal history, strengthening the case for his removal.
Outlook
Chavez remains in ICE custody as of July 3, 2025. Federal immigration authorities are expediting his removal process while cooperating with Mexican officials regarding his criminal warrant.
(with support from Virginia Times reporting intern)
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