Julio Cesar Chavez’s name still echoes in the streets of Culiacan, Mexico owing to his legendary boxing career. Following in his father’s footsteps, Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. became a boxing champion in his own right. However, the family’s legacy had been in a way marred by Chavez Jr.’s incarceration earlier this year. However, the son of the legendary boxer has persevered through those trying times and is now prepared to step into the boxing ring this coming Saturday.

Despite his return, Chavez Jr.’s incarceration and all the tumultuous events that preceded it cast a dark cloud over the Chavez clan. What were the specific circumstances that led to Chavez Jr.’s incarceration and subsequent release? Let’s find out.

What did Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. do?

The Los Angeles Police Department received a phone call on a Sunday in early January of this year, claiming that Chavez Jr. was carrying a firearm. The anonymous person said that the boxer might hurt him or other people. When the LAPD arrived at his residence in Sherman Oaks, the boxer let them into his home, where they discovered a ghost rifle. The term ‘ghost gun’ means a firearm that cannot be traced as it is not registered, thus making it illegal to keep it in possession. After discovering two of these weapons, the authorities detained him and sent him to the Valley Jail in Van Nuys.

After serving four days in jail, the former boxing champion was released on a $50,000 bail. After his parole, he smiled and said to the media in Spanish, “I’m good and ready for what is to come.” Chavez Jr. entered a not-guilty plea for the felony gun possession charges. However, he was ordered to enroll in a residential treatment program.

Chavez Jr. reportedly had no prior convictions related to firearm possession. However, in 2012, he was detained for driving under the influence. His possession of prohibited substances has resulted in multiple suspensions, though. Even so, in 2022, Chávez Jr.’s wife Frida brought to the notice of authorities that her husband might have taken a “concerning amount of pills and may need medical attention.” After the incident, the boxer’s father also issued a statement online asking for support from fans in these turbulent times. 

Julio Ceaser Chavez Sr.’s comments on his son’s arrest

Putting aside his pride and armor of supremacy, the senior Chavez wrote out a message of support to his devoted followers shortly after his son’s incarceration. Expressing his sincere concern for his son’s well-being, the Mexican boxing great wrote, “Thank you for checking and worrying about my son Julio. Unfortunately, I confirm the news that spread today. My son, Julio César Chávez Jr., was arrested and we are working with his lawyers to resolve his legal situation. It’s been a long road, but I have not lost faith. I pray to God that this is the moment that finally propels my son toward a useful and happy life.”

Julio Ceaser Chavez further urged his supporters to be understanding of the circumstances. He stated that he is unable to provide much information for legal reasons and that the issue is being sorted by his attorneys.

Chavez Jr.’s divorce from Frida has even been speculated to be a result of his repeated run-ins with the law. The legendary boxer’s son even claimed that if something happened to him, it would be his dad’s and his ex-wife’s fault. “They make me look like I’m crazy and she wins in court and she grabs the money and makes me look crazy,” he stated. Despite all the legal troubles, he had claimed to return to the boxing ring.

What’s happening with Julio César Chávez Jr. now?

Chavez Jr. was last seen inside the squared circle in December 2021, when he won the fight against David Zegarra. However, he has turned in lackluster performances in his most recent outings. A boxer who was once a celebrated champion has now lost the flair that he once had. However, the former WBC middleweight champion has the chance to retire from boxing by putting on some impressive performances for his fans which is what he will be trying to do.

The Mexican boxer will be seen going up against former MMA fighter and pro boxer Uriah Hall. It will be on the undercard of the Jake Paul vs. Mike Perry main event. The bout is set to take place on July 20th, at the Amalie Arena in Tampa. Do you think Chavez Jr. will be able to impress boxing fans with his upcoming fight? Or will he retire from the sport for good? Please share your thoughts about it in the comments section below.