Julio Cesar Chavez Jr.’s Return – Can He Bounce Back?

The President of the WBC Mauricio Sulaiman has supported Julio César Chávez Jr.’s return to the ring, which will take place on December 13 in San Luis Potosí to headline the WBC’s Guadalupano Tournament. 

The news comes after Chavez Jr.’s recent legal trouble where he was arrested by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and deported by the United States in July. Chavez was accused of illegal entry, as well as having ties to the Sinaloa Cartel. 

“The U.S. Department of Homeland Security deported Julio Cesar Chávez Jr. to Mexican authorities to face charges in accordance with his country’s justice system. This action reflects the strong cooperation between our governments, demonstrating that collaboration yields results and strengthens the security of both nations,” Ronald Johnson (U.S. ambassador to Mexico)

Chavez was jailed in Hermosillo, Mexico, before being released on bail. His last boxing appearance was a unanimous decision loss to Jake Paul in June. However, the December fight offers him a chance of redemption. 

“Chávez Junior has been a hero after his addictions. He has gone through a great recovery process, and we are standing in his corner,” Sulaimán said 

Sulaiman’s Wider Role

Elsewhere, Sulaiman was presented with the Key to the City of Reynosa by Mayor Carlos Peña Ortiz in recognition of the WBC’s efforts to combine boxing with community development. The honor was given as the city hosted a boxing event on October 11, as former world champion Miguel Berchelt stopped Edixon Perez for the exclusive WBC “Reynosa Belt.” The recognition celebrates Sulaiman’s leadership since 2014, where he has continued his father’s legacy by focusing on boxer safety and the global growth of women’s boxing. Sulaiman’s visit also included the following:

Boxing Museum Opening: The WBC helped inaugurate a new exhibit featuring memorabilia from champions like Floyd Mayweather and Erik Morales.

Social Activations: Sulaiman and champions like Jackie Nava visited the local hospital and held anti-bullying talks to promote discipline and respect among youth.