Colombian ex-boxer Jonathan 'Momo' Romero detained by ICE in Miami

Jonathan Romero, former world boxing champion from Colombia, was arrested by U.S. immigration agents while driving for Uber in Miami.

Colombian ex-boxer Jonathan 'Momo' Romero detained by ICE in Miami

Former professional boxer Jonathan Romero, known as "Momo," was taken into custody by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on June 23. The athlete, a native of Cali, Colombia, was working as an Uber driver in Miami, Florida, when officers stopped him.

According to reports from the specialized outlet Boxeo de Colombia, a police officer pulled over the 39-year-old fighter during a traffic stop. After discovering his immigration status, the officer transferred him to immigration authorities. Romero had previously filed for political asylum in the United States, claiming his life was in danger in his home country.

The former IBF featherweight world champion and Colombian Olympic representative at Beijing 2008 remains held at the Pembroke Pines detention center. In statements to the specialized media, Romero expressed fear of being moved to the Orlando facility. "I am not a criminal. I came to this country seeking protection because my life was in danger in Colombia," he said.

His legal situation reportedly depends on posting bail, an amount the boxer is said to be unable to afford. Romero's career includes medals at the Bolivarian Games and the Central American and Caribbean Games.

The case comes amid a period of heightened immigration enforcement in the United States. A study released by Human Rights Watch and Physicians for Human Rights found that since Donald Trump's return to the presidency, the mortality rate in ICE custody reached record levels, with 52 deaths recorded between January and June 2026.

_Source: Noticias Caracol_

Source: Google News CO — Crime