From world champ to fighting a YouTuber: Julio César Chávez Jr.’s turbulent career
In Anaheim this weekend, Chávez Jr. takes on YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul, in only his second fight since 2021.
This Saturday at Honda Center in Anaheim, California, Mexican boxer Julio César Chávez Jr. will step into the ring against one of the world’s most recognizable influencers - Jake Paul.
Chávez Jr., son of the legendary boxer Julio César Chávez, boasts a professional record of 54 wins, six losses and one draw, with 34 victories coming by knockout. Paul, meanwhile, enters the bout with an 11-1 record, including seven wins by knockout.
Once a WBC title holder
At 39 years old, Chávez Jr. is a former WBC middleweight world champion, a title he held from June 2011 to September 2012. He lost the belt to Argentina’s Sergio Martínez, a defeat that marked the beginning of a downward spiral in his career.
His high-profile comeback attempt in May 2017, against Saúl “Canelo” Álvarez, ended in disappointment when he was thoroughly outclassed by his countryman.
Career hit by addiction issues
Known affectionately as “Julito,” Chávez Jr. has battled personal demons, including substance abuse issues. His struggles have led to public clashes with Chávez Sr., especially after testing positive for marijuana following the Martínez fight. Since then, videos have surfaced showing Chávez Jr. in a questionable state, prompting heartfelt public concern from his father.
Over the past four years, Chávez Jr. has fought just once - against former MMA standout Uriah Hall in July 2024. His recent opponents have included two former UFC fighters, with Brazilian legend Anderson “Spider” Silva defeating him in Guadalajara.
Chávez Jr. began his professional career on December 18, 2004, in Culiacán, Sinaloa, scoring a knockout win over Eliseo Urias. Despite flashes of promise, he has struggled to find consistency. Now, lured by a lucrative payday, he returns to the ring once more - this time against a YouTube star-turned-boxer.
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