Background
Kelmer was born in Żychlin, Poland in 1905. His father was a coal-seller.
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- Works
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Abe Coleman
Edit ProfileCareer
At the time of his death, Coleman was believed to be the oldest professional wrestler in the world. In 1923, he emigrated to Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, and later moved to New York City in the United States. According to the Canadian Online Explorer"s Greg Oliver, there is debate regarding Kelmer"s debut in professional wrestling.
In 1929, local promoter Rudy Miller offered Coleman $25 to wrestle after seeing him work out in a Brooklyn gym.
Despite this, an "Abe Coleman" wrestled to a draw with George Deslonchamps on March 19, 1928 at Madison Square Garden, but it is unknown if it was Kepler or another wrestler with the same ring name. Coleman is also credited with the invention of the dropkick, claiming the move was inspired by kangaroos he saw on a tour of Australia in 1930.
In the 1930s, Coleman defeated Jim Londos in a match in a Mexico City bullring in front of 60,000 spectators. During a 1936 match against Manitoba Mountain Dean in front of 36,000 people, Coleman slammed Dean to the ground, breaking the ring mat and dropping the pair down to the arena floor.
Following his retirement from active in-ring competition, Coleman became a professional wrestling referee.
He also promoted several wrestling shows with Bill Johnston. Following his retirement from wrestling, Kelmer inspected license plates for the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles. Finishing moves
Dropkick – innovated
Signature moves
Airplane spin
Flying headbutt
Nicknames
"Ape Manitoba"
"Little Giant"
Cauliflower Alley Club
Other honoree (1995)
Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame and Museum
Class of 2012 (Pioneer category).
