As part of the Puebla 2026 Fair activities, legendary former boxers Julio César Chávez and Jorge “El Travieso” Arce will headline an exhibition fight next Saturday, May 9th. The announcement was made by Governor Alejandro Armenta Mier, who highlighted that both former fighters will arrive in Puebla days before the bout to tour different municipalities, interact with the public, and promote sports as a tool for social transformation. The event's activities will begin at 6:00 PM with amateur fights, while the main exhibition bout between Chávez and Arce is scheduled for 8:00 PM at the Miguel Hidalgo gym. A fight for a cause and a social message Armenta Mier explained that this match is part of a comprehensive strategy that includes implementing addiction treatment and prevention models, inspired by the clinics developed by Julio César Chávez based on his personal experience. “The objective is to raise awareness and provide real alternatives for young people,” he emphasized. The return to the ring and a special rivalry Meanwhile, Julio César Chávez acknowledged that returning to the ring after more than two decades is a significant challenge. “There is always a risk, but I am doing it gladly for the cause,” he expressed, while also mentioning that he will wear a mask due to nose problems stemming from his professional career. The former world champion also recalled his fight against addictions, an experience that led him to create various rehabilitation and prevention clinics. In turn, Jorge “El Travieso” Arce described it as an honor to face his idol, whom he considers one of his main inspirations for getting into boxing. The Sinaloan fighter announced that he will arrive a week early in Puebla to train in public spaces and interact with fans. The governor reminded that this initiative is part of the commitments he made during his 2024 campaign, when he agreed with Chávez to promote sports and strengthen addiction treatment programs in the state.
