Legendary Mexican boxer Julio César Chávez is the focus of a new five-episode docuseries called "Chávez vs. Chávez," which debuts on ViX on September 11, 2026. Directed by Diego Enrique Osorno, the series uses over 25 hours of interviews filmed in key locations such as Culiacán, Tijuana, Las Vegas, Mexico City, Madrid, and Guadalajara to tell the story of Chávez’s rise from poverty to becoming a world boxing champion. The documentary gives Chávez the platform to share his personal journey in his own words, revealing not only his impressive career but also the struggles he faced beyond the ring.

At the height of his career, Chávez battled a severe addiction to drugs and alcohol, a fight he describes as far tougher than any opponent in the ring. The series exposes the personal toll of this darkest period in his life, including legal battles and family conflicts. Chávez reflects candidly on his near-suicide and the isolating impact of addiction, emphasizing that recovery is an ongoing daily struggle. Now 18 years sober, he credits his survival to faith and participation in formal recovery programs, underscoring the constant vigilance required to maintain sobriety.

The docuseries also addresses the fallout within Chávez’s own family, touching on his son Julio César Chávez Jr.'s struggles with addiction and legal issues, which remains one of the most painful aspects of the story for the former boxer. Despite this, Chávez remains hopeful that his openness will inspire others battling similar challenges. He runs four addiction treatment clinics across Mexico, personally visiting patients and giving motivational talks in schools to encourage discipline and perseverance in overcoming addiction.

"Chávez vs. Chávez" offers a unique perspective on the life of a sports icon who for decades faced others’ narratives about him. The series not only chronicles Chávez’s athletic and personal highs and lows but also portrays his determination to rewrite his own legacy. Produced by N+ Docs, the documentary invites audiences to witness the human side of a boxing legend—confronting his toughest opponent: himself.