[2][3] After graduating from Thomas Jefferson High School in Rochester in 1944, he served in the United States Navy during World War II and wrestled while in the service.

The duo won the Capital Wrestling Corporation's United States Tag Team Championship on July 5, 1962, holding it for 245 days.

Over the following months, his regular opponents included Hans Schmidt, Ilio DiPaolo, Karl Von Hess, and Moose Cholak.

During 1965, Barend regularly faced Chris and John Tolos, as well as opponents such as Hans Schmidt, Johnny Powers, and The Beast.

He would enter the ring wearing his customary hat and sunglasses an unlit cigar gracing his lips and would goad fans with his soliloquies.

The ceremony took place during a wrestling show at Honolulu International Center with Jim Hady serving as Barend's best man.