Just days after boxing Jake Paul in the main event of a match held at Anaheim’s Honda Center, former world champion Julio César Chávez Jr. has been arrested by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
According to a news release from the Department of Homeland Security, Chávez was arrested in Studio City, California Wednesday, where authorities allege that he is “believed to be an affiliate of the Sinaloa Cartel.”
“Under President Trump, no one is above the law—including world-famous athletes,” said Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin. “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.”
ICE says that it will deport Chávez to Mexico, where it says there is an active warrant out for his arrest. The agency says that “following multiple fraudulent statements on his application to become a Lawful Permanent Resident, he was determined to be in the country illegally and removable on June 27, 2025.” That’s the same day as the fight.
Chávez is the son of the Mexican boxing legend Julio César Chávez, who is widely regarded as one of the best boxers of all time.
His bout against Paul was a major sporting event, setting a record for the largest boxing gate in Honda Center history. Paul ultimately defeated Chávez in the fight, setting the former YouTube star up for a potential title run.
