A former Mexican Federale named Machete is set up and betrayed by a notorious drug lord named Torrez, leaving him for dead. Years later, now living in Texas as a day laborer, Machete is approached by Michael Booth, a businessman with shady connections, to assassinate a corrupt anti-immigration senator, John McLaughlin. However, Machete soon discovers it’s a setup, part of a conspiracy involving powerful political figures and businessmen aiming to control the border for their own gain. Severely wounded, Machete is rescued by Luz, the leader of an immigrant aid organization, and Shé, a skilled agent from Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Together, they aim to take down the corrupt network.

As Machete begins his quest for vengeance against those who betrayed him and the corrupt establishment, he employs his unparalleled skills and a variety of makeshift weapons to fight his way through multiple adversaries. With the help of Luz and Shé, Machete uncovers a deeper conspiracy involving a plan to manipulate immigration policy for personal gain. As he battles his way through a web of lies and violence, Machete rallies an army of disgruntled laborers and revolutionists to stand against the looming threat. The story becomes a relentless journey of retribution and justice, set against the backdrop of border politics and social issues, culminating in a climatic showdown between right and wrong.