Curmel Moton, Floyd Mayweather’s protégé, pegged as a future star in boxing, finds himself at the center of controversy after being handed an indefinite suspension by the New Jersey Athletic Control Board (NJACB). The 18-year-old was all set to face Bryan Mercado at a catchweight of 133. However, on the day of the weigh-ins, the Salt Lake City native registered a weight of 148.7 pounds instead, which resulted in the fight being canceled. This may have resulted in his indefinite suspension.

Despite this setback, Moton has been given another chance to showcase his skills. He has been added to the undercard of the Ryan Garcia vs. Rukia Anpo exhibition fight on December 30 in Tokyo, where he will face his toughest opponent yet, the seasoned 30-year-old Albert Pagara. However, the opportunity has sparked criticism, with boxing legend and former unified light heavyweight champion Antonio Tarver accusing Mayweather Promotions of rushing Moton’s career and potentially jeopardizing his future.

Too Fast, Too Soon: Is Floyd Mayweather Rushing Moton?

Taking to Instagram, Antonio Tarver commented on a post from Mo’ Boxing, No Problem, that was comparing their records, expressing his belief that Mayweather Promotions is pushing the young fighter too hard by pitting him against Pagara so early. He wrote, “#TarversTake 🎥🎧🎤 What’s the rush? They gonna ruin that kid! “REMEMBER WHERE YOU HEARD IT FIRST”!” as he predicted the youngster might be overexerting himself.

While it’s true that Moton has been active since his debut in 2023, fighting six times and maintaining an undefeated record, questions remain about the long-term effects of such an intense schedule. Still, these frequent bouts have provided invaluable exposure and experience. Of his six fights, only one has gone the distance, showcasing his ability to handle pressure in the ring.

Moton’s upcoming fight against Albert Pagara will take place over eight rounds at 140 pounds—a division heavier than his usual lightweight category of 135. While the match against the 35-1 fighter offers a chance for redemption, it also presents a significant test for the young fighter as he faces an opponent with far more experience.

While Tarver thinks that the 18-year-old is fighting too much, Moton is still subject to a ban by NJACB. The situation turned even more ugly when Moton, only a few days ago, accused the commission of losing his blood and using the weigh-in as an excuse.

Curmel Moton’s chance at redemption

After the suspension, the young prodigy explained in a statement that the New Jersey Athletic Control Board had lost his blood work in their system. Therefore, the fight’s sanctioning would have been impossible, regardless.

He declared, “I’ve been going back and forth with the commission about my bloodwork passing, and as of right now, they lost my blood in their system. I’ve known this for the past three days.” As the fight was already off the table for him, he didn’t try hard to make weight. Moton further added that the commission pushed him to make weight so that they could use it as an excuse to call off the fight.

With the exact reasons for Moton’s suspension remaining unclear, the young prospect has an opportunity to put the controversy behind him in his fight against Pagara. At just 18 years old, Moton has ample time to learn, grow, and refine his craft.

So, even though Antonio Tarver thinks that these constant fights will burn up Curmel Moton, at this moment, it is the perfect thing for him to do. Do you think Floyd Mayweather is not managing Curmel Moton considerately? Let us know your thoughts down below.