The multivariable analysis revealed that T1–T2 (p < 0.001), negative N status (p = 0.002), ESCC located in the middle and lower esophagus (p = 0.006), and low expression of SDF-1α (p < 0.001) were independent predictive factors for better DFS. This evidence concerns the gene CXCL12 and esophageal squamous cell carcinoma.