He was known affectionately in Mount Isa as "Big Al" and was apparently well known and respected in the town. "Big Al" was a noted amateur heavyweight boxer before the war.
When "Big Al" arrived in Mount Isa he needed an eye operation. They had to build an oversize operating table to accommodate "Big Al" who was 6 foot 5 inches tall and very solidly built. He was operated on by an Australian Army Doctor.
He was also active in Munich with charitable work for orphans.
He was Joe Louis sparring partner at some stage and fought Joe Louis in an exhibition fight in California in 1948.
After Jimmy Johnston, Al Hoosmans manager died in 1946, his contract was bought by Billa Daly and Tex Sullivan.
After serving in the US Army during World War II, he settled in Germany and eventually began acting in German films.
Originally a boxer, he won the Golden Gloves Championship in 1939.
He enlisted in the US Army in Los Angeles, California on 23 November 1940.
Al Hoosman once fought an exhibition with Mike Klomp on 3 July 1936.
He apparently fought on the same amateur tournament as Sugar Ray Robinson.
