Boxer Julio César Chávez Jr. arrested in 'ghost gun' case in Los Angeles
Boxer Julio César Chávez Jr. was arrested in Los Angeles on allegations of illegal possession of an assault rifle, his father Mexican boxing legend Julio César Chávez confirmed in a news statement.
"Thank you for checking and worrying about my son Julio. Unfortunately, I confirm the news that spread today (Jan. 8). My son, Julio César Chávez Jr., was arrested and we are working with his lawyers to resolve his legal situation,” the former boxer said.
He said that a team of lawyers is working on his son's case with hopes that the legal situation is resolved soon.
“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," he said.
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Chávez Sr. asked for respect for his family at this time and said that due to the legal situation they would not make further statements.
“I ask for your understanding, due to legal matters we cannot give out more information. His lawyer, Guadalupe Valencia, is with him at this moment. Thank you for everything and blessings," he stated.
Why was Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. arrested?
According to entertainment news site TMZ, Chávez Jr. was arrested by Los Angeles police last weekend after Chávez Jr. allowed officers into his home, where they located a "ghost rifle," which could not be traced in the database and which proved its illegality.
Following in his father's footsteps, Chávez Jr. was in the world of boxing for several years, although he has not been able to achieve his father's success in the ring. Chávez Jr. found himself in the ring with greats like Danny Jacobs and Saúl "El Canelo" Alvarez and finished his career with a record of 53-6-1.
His last fight on U.S. soil was in December 2019, against Jacobs, when he lost in the sixth round after his team alerted the referee about an alleged broken nose. His most recent fight took place in his native Culiacán, Sinaloa, in December 2021, where he won against the Peruvian David Zegarra.
Diana García is a correspondent in Mexico City for La Voz Arizona. Follow her coverage on X, formerly Twitter, @DianaGaav. Reporter Javier Arce contributed to this article.
This article originally appeared on El Paso Times: Boxer Julio César Chávez Jr. arrested on gun charge in Los Angeles
