Julio Cesar Chavez had a highly anticipated exhibition fight lined up against Erik 'Terrible' Morales, with the event set to take place at the Caliente Stadium in Tijuana on June 24th.
Unfortunately, Chavez recently announced that he won't be able to participate in the fight due to an ongoing injury that has impeded his recovery.
Chavez Sr. also mentioned that his son, Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. relapsed into an anxiolytic addiction, which he took to help him sleep.
In some videos circulating on social media, Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. can be seen in a bad state and saying that he wants to relapse into addiction.
In response to the circumstances, Julio Cesar Chavez Sr. took a stance to address speculations surrounding his son's condition. During an interview with ESPN Deportes' David Faitelson, the retired boxer clarified that his son's struggles were primarily attributed to the improper use of anxiolytics.
"Unfortunately, Julio suffers from depression," Chavez Sr. said. "He took an anxiolytic, so he had not slept for two days and he began to delirium and his brain swelled. He went backwards. When you leave an addiction, you sometimes pretend to start using again, but without using. He took an anxiolytic, but since he is addicted he took three and he began to remember things from the past."
Throughout his career, Julio Cesar Chavez Jr., the son of the renowned boxer Julio Cesar Chavez Sr., has encountered numerous challenges associated with drug usage. He has been repeatedly found to have tested positive for prohibited substances, leading to a series of repercussions and hindrances in his professional journey.
Following his match against Troy Rowland in 2009, Chavez Jr. faced the consequence of testing positive for a prohibited substance. As a result, the fight was deemed a no-contest, and he received a suspension lasting seven months. In 2012, after his bout against Sergio Martinez, he tested positive for marijuana, which resulted in a significant fine and an additional suspension.
In 2017, Cesar Chavez Jr. found himself in yet another doping controversy leading up to his much-anticipated match against Canelo Alvarez. He tested positive for hydrochlorothiazide, a diuretic often utilized as a masking agent for performance-enhancing substances. Despite the incident, the fight between Chavez Jr. and Alvarez went ahead as planned. However, as a consequence, Chavez Jr. faced a nine-month suspension and incurred a substantial fine.
Chavez Jr.'s repeated encounters with drug-related problems have consistently drawn negative attention, casting a shadow over his career and tarnishing his reputation within the realm of boxing. These issues have had significant repercussions, impacting his professional opportunities and potentially hindering his progression within the sport.
On top of the challenges he has faced regarding drug use and doping controversies, Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. has taken steps towards addressing his drug-related problems by voluntarily entering rehabilitation. After his positive drug tests in both 2017 and 2022, Chavez Jr. recognized the need for professional assistance and made the courageous decision to seek help in confronting and overcoming his struggles with substance abuse.
Rehabilitation programs generally encompass a structured framework tailored to assist individuals in overcoming addiction and reclaiming control over their lives. While specific information regarding Julio Cesar Chavez Jr.'s rehabilitation experience may not be widely available, typical programs often incorporate a range of therapeutic approaches, counseling sessions, educational components, and comprehensive support systems. These components aim to address the root causes of addiction and facilitate the journey towards recovery.
Undoubtedly, entering rehab represents a pivotal and commendable step towards recovery, signifying a sincere commitment to addressing personal struggles and embracing necessary transformations for a more wholesome lifestyle. It reflects an individual's willingness to confront the challenges posed by substance abuse and their determination to embark on a path of healing and well-being. Such a decision highlights strength, self-awareness, and the desire to forge a brighter future.
Chavez Jr.'s decision to pursue treatment reflects his determination to confront his drug-related issues and strive for a brighter future. It's crucial to recognize that sustaining long-term sobriety and effectively managing addiction necessitate continual dedication and ongoing support. The journey towards lasting recovery demands a persistent commitment to personal growth and the presence of a supportive network.