A pioneering wrestler and coach who broke racial barriers in the sport, known for winning Olympic bronze and coaching several national teams.
Allen Coage is renowned for his remarkable achievements in the world of judo and professional wrestling. As a bronze medalist at the 1976 Summer Olympics and a formidable force in the wrestling ring, Coage left an indelible mark on both sports.
Coage was born on October 22, 1943, in Harlem, New York City, and raised in St. Albans, Queens. He discovered judo at the age of 15, when he stumbled upon a poster for Jerome Mackey's dojo on the New York City Subway. This chance encounter sparked a passion that would drive Coage to excel in the sport.
Coage's dedication to judo led him to become a black belt in two and a half years, and he continued to hone his skills under the guidance of Kastuo Watanabe, with whom he also studied Tomiki Aikido. His favored throws, the uchi gari and the Tai otoshi, became hallmarks of his classical style.
Coage's impressive judo career was marked by multiple championships and accolades. He won the Amateur Athletic Union judo championship in the heavyweight class in 1966, 1968, 1969, 1970, and 1975, as well as the open division in 1970. Additionally, he secured gold medals in the heavyweight class at the 1967 and 1975 Pan American Games.
After his Olympic success, Coage transitioned to professional wrestling, adopting the ring names Bad News Brown, Buffalo Allen, and Bad News Allen. He competed in the World Wrestling Federation, New Japan Pro-Wrestling, and Stampede Wrestling, leaving a lasting impact on the sport.
Coage's exceptional achievements in judo and wrestling inspired countless individuals to pursue careers in these sports. His trailblazing path forged a way for future generations of athletes, particularly African Americans, to excel in these fields.
Throughout his life, Coage remained humble and dedicated to his craft. He continued to train and mentor young athletes, sharing his wisdom and expertise with the next generation. Coage's legacy extends beyond his impressive athletic achievements, serving as a testament to the power of perseverance and hard work.
In 1972, Coage suffered a severe knee injury during an Olympic Trials bout, which prevented him from competing in the 1972 Summer Olympics. However, he rebounded from this setback, rededicating himself to his training and ultimately winning the bronze medal at the 1976 Summer Olympics.
Allen Coage's remarkable journey serves as a testament to the power of human resilience and determination. His contributions to the world of judo and professional wrestling continue to inspire and influence generations of athletes.
77 Years Old
Legendary wrestler and coach who won 118 consecutive matches and led the University of Iowa to 15 NCAA championships, revolutionizing the sport with his intense training methods.
48 Years Old
South Africa's former rugby team captain and hooker, known for leading the Springboks to World Cup victory in 2007 and becoming the first player to captain a team to 50 Test wins.
76 Years Old
A Canadian ice hockey player and referee who officiated in the NHL and internationally, including the 1980 Winter Olympics. He's most known for being a pioneer for referees' rights and safety.
57 Years Old
A legendary Olympic gold medalist and WWE Hall of Famer, known for his intense wrestling matches and charismatic persona.
29 Years Old
Goalkeeper for Manchester United and England, known for his exceptional reflexes and shot-stopping ability.
