Veteran pro wrestler Johnny Barend passed away in his home of Avon, New York on Tuesday, September 20. He was 82.
Barend (born John Behrend) was known primarly during his wrestling career as “Handsome” Johnny Barend, was a major fixture in the pro wrestling industry in the ‘50s and ‘60s primarily.
While he worked all around the world and was a fixture throughout the National Wrestling Alliance, he was a huge star in Hawaii. Barend was well known for his top-notch interviews during his heyday, and were often considered the highlight of Hawaii’s Saturday afternoon wrestling TV show. He was also a prolific tag team wrestler, credited with winning tag team championships across the country with a staggering nine different partners, including The Magnificent Maurice and former World Heavyweight Champion “Nature Boy” Buddy Rogers. He also worked with other top stars of the day such as the late King Curtis Iaukea and the late Lord James Blears.
Thankfully his passing was not like so many tragic wrestling deaths that have seemingly become commonplace over the years. Unlike many wrestlers who have died recently well before their time, Barend lived a full life of 82 years, and is survived by his wife Annie.
For more on Barend, visit his bio on Online World of Wrestling. Also check out a great feature story highlighting his life and career from 2008 on SLAM! Sports Wrestling.
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