Culiacan, Mexico – The arrest of Julio César Chávez Jr., the eldest son of boxing legend Julio César Chávez, has sent shockwaves through Sinaloa state’s capital. Chávez Jr. was arrested by US immigration agents outside his home in Los Angeles on Wednesday, accused of overstaying his visa and lying on a green card application.
However, more significant than his arrest is the active warrant for his capture in Mexico, alleging arms and drug trafficking ties to the Sinaloa Cartel. The US Department of Homeland Security suggested expedited removal proceedings, citing potential links between Chávez Jr. and organized crime.
In Culiacan, the city where Chávez’s legend is revered, conversations about his arrest are hushed and avoided. However, many in the boxing community have expressed concern over the alleged cartel ties, which has raised questions about the sport’s association with organized crime.
Chávez Jr.’s arrest comes after a bloody feud between factions of the Sinaloa Cartel erupted last year, sparking concerns about the region’s safety. His involvement in the cartel is not proven, but his marriage to a US citizen and connections to former cartel leader Joaquín “El Chapo” Guzmán have raised suspicions.
As Chávez Jr.’s future hangs in the balance, many in Culiacan are questioning how he could be linked to organized crime. The boxing community has largely distanced itself from the alleged ties, with trainers and boxers expressing support for Chávez Jr. as an “excellent person” and a dedicated athlete.
The incident highlights the complexities of Mexico’s troubled relationship with organized crime and its impact on everyday life, including sports.
Source: https://apnews.com/article/chavez-mexico-sinaloa-boxing-cartel-8bdce54ccc92631262250465fdf1ea67