Julio César Chávez supports his son: “If he were a drug dealer, I would put him in jail myself”
The boxing icon rejects allegations of cartel ties, says his son is battling addiction and planning a Dec. 13 comeback.

Boxing legend Julio César Chávez has come to the defense of his son, Julio César Chávez Jr., amid ongoing accusations that he has connections to organized crime. The former world champion made it clear he believes his son is innocent.
“I know my son and I know what he’s done with his life. If my son were a drug trafficker, I’d turn him in myself. He’s not involved with any cartel,” Chávez said during a World Boxing Council (WBC) event. “He’s had addiction problems, he’s fighting through them, and we’re in the middle of that process. There’s nothing more to it.”
“Being friends doesn’t make you a criminal”
Chávez acknowledged that the last few months have been difficult for the family but said he has full confidence in the authorities to clear his son’s name.
“We live in Culiacán, we know everyone there, and it’s impossible not to give someone an autograph because you know how that could end,” he explained. “Being friends with someone doesn’t make you a drug trafficker. Those are the consequences my son has to deal with. I already made my amends and asked forgiveness from those I needed to.”
Chávez Jr. set for boxing comeback
After his loss to YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul, many assumed Chávez Jr.’s career was over, especially after legal issues that led to his deportation and prosecution in the United States over alleged drug connections. Despite the setbacks, the fighter known as “El Junior” is preparing to step back into the ring.
“Julio, my son, is coming back on December 13 in San Luis Potosí,” Chávez said. “Mauricio (Sulaimán) promised me something really special for that night, and I hope he keeps his word.”
Sulaimán: “A hero to many”
WBC president Mauricio Sulaimán, who attended the same press event, confirmed that plans are underway to celebrate the fighter’s return.
“We’ve been working on something that will be announced in the coming days - the ‘Guadalupano Tournament,’” Sulaimán said. “When Julio told me his son was returning, we promised to create a special ‘Guadalupano Belt’ to accompany him in this new chapter. After battling addiction, Chávez Jr. has gone through an incredible recovery process, and that makes him a hero to many.”
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