One of Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman's main cartel rivals pleaded guilty of drug trafficking in the United States and other South American countries on Feb. 23. Alfredo Beltran Leyva, who was captured in Mexico back in 2008, was extradited to the United States two years ago.

"Yes, Your Honor, I helped my brother Arturo and I conspired with my brother Arturo. I was only a member of the organization," Beltran Leyva confessed. He faces a minimum of 10 years in prison, while a life sentence is the maximum punishment. His sentencing is scheduled on June 6, while he remains in prison.

"For decades, Alfredo Beltran Leyva helped to lead one of the world's most notorious drug cartels, causing widespread violence and disrupting lives. With this guilty plea, justice has been done, and Beltran Leyva will be held accountable for his crimes," Attorney General Loretta E. Lynch said.

'El Mochomo'

Alfredo Beltran Leyva, also known as "El Mochomo" or "The Fireant," is the leader of the Beltran-Leyva cartel along with his three brothers. Acting Administrator of the Drug Enforcement Agency Chuck Rosenberg said that "El Mochomo" and his organization destroyed "families and communities."

He was largely responsible for the distribution of cocaine and methamphetamine in the streets of the United States. Beltran Leyva was indicted back in August 2012 before pleading guilty to U.S. District Judge Richard J. Leon of the District of Columbia.

The 45-year-old drug cartel leader was also a former ally of "El Chapo" before they became bitter rivals. He allegedly helped Guzman build the Sinaloa cartel into one of the biggest drug trafficking organizations in the world. He is also part of Guzman's extended family because he is married to one of "El Chapo's" cousins.

He and his brothers split from the Sinaloa cartel sometime in 2008. Beltran Leyva has also accused Guzman of setting up his arrest for the alleged murder of Edgar Guzman, the son of "El Chapo."

Key Witness

There is a high possibility that "El Mochomo" will become a key witness if ever Guzman gets a trial in the United States. Previous Mexican drug lords who pleaded guilty in the United States courts often become witnesses against other cartel leaders.

However, his lawyer A. Eduardo Balarezo said, "After considering many personal and legal factors, my client decided to plead guilty to the indictment without an agreement with the government."

On the other hand, "El Chapo" may be tried in the Eastern District of Brooklyn since he is facing charges of drug trafficking in seven states. Several of the charges include illegal distribution of cocaine, money laundering, murder and kidnapping.