Yes Abraham at one point was elite. Especially at 160 when he moved to 168 he got beat but he still found success there wining a title there and holding it for many years after his early loses in the division. Abraham is a perfect example of a guy who dared to be great unlike GGG he was a muderous puncher at 160 wanted to prove himself at 168. He was a co-favorite at the Super 6 based on his dominance at 160.
Abraham record at 160 is quite ordinary compared to GGGs. He was fighting 12 rounders against guys that Golovkin blows away with easy. He didn´t unify even though Sturm, Taylor and Pavlik were around at the same time. Based on his record, he would have had hands full with Murray, Geale, Monroe Jr., Stevens, Lemieux and Proksa. Abraham can´t be compared to Golovkin in any level - skill wise, achievements or entertainment value.
I can admit abraham isnt as skilled as ggg but unlike ggg Abraham dared to be great that's what separates the two he believed in his talent and wasnt afraid to prove it. That's why he entered the super 6 at 168 because he couldn't get the big fights he wanted at 160.
For what I have read from several articles, Abraham had problems to make weight and for that, he decided to move up.