25 Nicknames Mafia: From Capos to Kingpins

You’ve likely heard of “Scarface” Al Capone or “The Dapper Don” John Gotti, but the world of mafia nicknames goes far beyond these infamous monikers. From cunning capos to ruthless kingpins, these colorful aliases often tell a story of their own.

They’re not just catchy names; they’re windows into the complex, brutal world of organized crime. Each nickname hints at a unique personality, a notorious deed, or a peculiar trait that set its bearer apart in the underworld.

As you explore these 25 mafia nicknames, you’ll uncover the fascinating tales behind some of history’s most feared criminals.

“Lucky” Luciano

Charles “Lucky” Luciano, born Salvatore Lucania, earned his moniker through a combination of luck and cunning.

You’ll find that his nickname stems from two key events in his life. First, he survived a brutal attack in 1929, when he was stabbed and left for dead. Then, he dodged a murder conviction in 1936. These narrow escapes solidified his reputation as a man favored by fortune.

Luciano’s influence on organized crime can’t be overstated.

He’s credited with modernizing the Mafia, creating the “Commission” to oversee operations and settle disputes. You’ll see his impact in the way he restructured the mob, moving away from old-world traditions and towards a more business-like model.

His legacy continues to shape our understanding of organized crime today, making him one of the most influential gangsters in American history.

“Scarface” Al Capone

Alphonse “Scarface” Capone, arguably the most infamous gangster in American history, gained his nickname from out of a violent encounter.

You’ll find that Capone received three facial scars in a fight at a Brooklyn nightclub, where he insulted a woman and her brother retaliated. This incident marked him for life, both physically and in reputation.

As you explore Capone’s history, you’ll discover he rose to power during Prohibition, controlling Chicago’s criminal underworld.

He’s known for his ruthless tactics and the infamous St. Valentine’s Day Massacre. Despite his violent reputation, Capone cultivated a Robin Hood image, opening soup kitchens during the Great Depression.

You’ll note that his downfall came not from his violent crimes, but from tax evasion charges in 1931, leading to his imprisonment in Alcatraz.

“The Dapper Don” John Gotti

While Al Capone ruled Chicago’s underworld in the early 20th century, John Gotti dominated New York’s mob scene decades later.

Known as “The Dapper Don” for his impeccable style and charismatic personality, Gotti rose to power in the 1980s as the head of the Gambino crime family. You’ll find that his reign was marked by flamboyance and media attention, a stark contrast to the low-profile approach of traditional mob bosses.

Gotti’s nickname wasn’t just about his suits; it reflected his ability to manipulate public perception. He beat several high-profile cases, earning another moniker: “The Teflon Don.”

However, his luck ran out in 1992 when he was convicted of multiple charges, including murder and racketeering. Gotti’s downfall serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of seeking the spotlight in the criminal underworld.

“Chin” Vincent Gigante

Unlike Gotti’s flamboyant style, Vincent “The Chin” Gigante took a different approach to avoiding law enforcement scrutiny. He adopted the “crazy act,” pretending to be mentally ill for decades. You’d often see him wandering the streets of New York in a bathrobe, mumbling to himself. This strategy aimed to make him appear unfit for trial and incapable of running a criminal enterprise.

Gigante’s tactics included:

• Checking into psychiatric hospitals regularly
• Speaking in whispers to avoid wiretaps
• Using relatives as intermediaries for mob business

Despite his act, Gigante was a cunning and powerful Mafia boss. He led the Genovese crime family for years, becoming one of the most influential mobsters in America.

His nickname, “The Chin,” came from his mother’s term of endearment, “Chinzeeno,” meaning “little chin” in Italian.

“Crazy Joe” Gallo

Moving from one “crazy” mobster to another, we come to Joseph “Crazy Joe” Gallo.

You’ll find that Gallo earned his nickname through his erratic behavior and violent outbursts. He was a prominent figure in the Profaci crime family during the 1950s and 1960s. Gallo’s reputation for unpredictability made him both feared and respected within the criminal underworld.

You might be interested to know that Gallo’s life was marked by conflict. He initiated a rebellion against his boss, Joe Profaci, which led to a bloody gang war. Gallo’s actions disrupted the delicate balance of power within the New York Mafia.

Despite his volatile nature, he was known for his intellect and charisma. Gallo’s life ended dramatically in 1972 when he was gunned down in a Little Italy restaurant, a fitting end for a man who lived by violence.

“The Snake” Carmine Persico

Another notorious figure in the world of organized crime was Carmine “The Snake” Persico. He earned his nickname through his cunning ability to evade law enforcement and betray his rivals.

Persico’s criminal career spanned decades, during which he rose to become the long-time boss of the Colombo crime family.

You’ll find Persico’s life marked by:

• Multiple attempts on his life, including a near-fatal shooting
• A 139-year prison sentence for racketeering and murder
• Continued control of his crime family from behind bars

Despite his incarceration, Persico maintained his grip on power through loyal associates and family members.

His ability to adapt and survive in the cutthroat world of organized crime cemented his reputation as one of the most resilient and influential Mafia bosses in American history.

“Sammy the Bull” Gravano

Who could forget the infamous Salvatore “Sammy the Bull” Gravano? This former underboss of the Gambino crime family earned his nickname for his brazen and aggressive nature.

You’ll find that Gravano’s reputation as a ruthless mobster is well-deserved, having confessed to involvement in 19 murders.

Gravano’s career in organized crime spanned decades, but he’s best known for his role as a government informant. In 1991, he turned on John Gotti, testifying against the “Teflon Don” in exchange for a reduced sentence.

This betrayal led to Gotti’s conviction and shook the foundations of the Mafia.

After serving time, Gravano briefly entered the witness protection program but later left it.

He’s since been in and out of prison for various offenses, including drug trafficking.

“Whitey” Bulger

From the streets of Boston emerged James “Whitey” Bulger, a notorious gangster whose reign of terror lasted for decades.

You’ll find that Bulger’s criminal career was marked by violence, corruption, and a complex relationship with law enforcement. He rose to power in the Winter Hill Gang, becoming one of the most infamous mobsters in American history.

Bulger’s notoriety stemmed from:

• His alleged role as an FBI informant
• His involvement in multiple murders
• His 16-year stint on the FBI’s Most Wanted list

You’ll discover that Bulger’s criminal empire extended beyond traditional mob activities. He controlled much of Boston’s drug trade, extortion rackets, and illegal gambling operations.

His ability to evade capture for so long was partly due to his connections within the FBI, which he manipulated to eliminate rivals and maintain power.

The Teflon Don

Nicknamed “The Teflon Don” for his ability to avoid conviction, John Gotti became one of the most famous mobsters in American history.

As the boss of the Gambino crime family, Gotti rose to power in the 1980s after orchestrating the assassination of his predecessor, Paul Castellano. You’ll find that Gotti’s flamboyant style and media savvy set him apart from other mafia leaders.

Despite facing multiple trials, Gotti managed to evade justice for years, often through witness intimidation and jury tampering.

His luck ran out in 1992 when he was finally convicted of racketeering and murder charges. The prosecution’s star witness, Gotti’s former underboss Sammy Gravano, provided damning testimony that sealed his fate.

Gotti spent the rest of his life in prison, where he died in 2002.

The Oddfather

Vincent “The Chin” Gigante earned the moniker “The Oddfather” for his bizarre public behavior. As the boss of the Genovese crime family, he adopted an unusual strategy to avoid prosecution.

You’d often see him wandering the streets of New York in a bathrobe, muttering to himself and appearing mentally unstable. This act was designed to convince authorities he was unfit for trial.

Gigante’s odd behavior included:

• Checking into psychiatric hospitals regularly
• Wearing pajamas in public
• Urinating on the street

Despite his eccentric facade, Gigante was a cunning criminal mastermind. He ran one of the most powerful mafia families in America for decades. His strategy worked for years, delaying his prosecution and conviction.

However, in 1997, he was finally sentenced to 12 years in prison for racketeering and conspiracy charges.

“Tony Ducks” Corallo

While Vincent Gigante evaded the law with his “crazy act,” another mobster earned his nickname through a different kind of evasiveness.

Anthony Corallo, known as “Tony Ducks,” got his moniker for his uncanny ability to “duck” subpoenas and indictments. As the boss of the Lucchese crime family, Corallo masterfully avoided legal troubles for years.

You’ll find that Corallo’s tactics were less theatrical than Gigante’s but equally effective. He maintained a low profile, rarely meeting associates in person and instead relying on a car phone for communication.

This strategy kept him out of the authorities’ grasp for a long time. However, his luck ran out in 1985 when the FBI finally caught him through wiretaps.

Corallo’s story serves as a reminder that even the most elusive criminals can’t outrun justice forever.

“The Executioner” Giovanni Brusca

Blood-soaked hands earned Giovanni Brusca his chilling moniker, “The Executioner.” As a high-ranking member of the Sicilian Mafia, Brusca was responsible for countless murders, including the infamous assassination of anti-mafia judge Giovanni Falcone.

You’ll find Brusca’s reign of terror was marked by:

• Dissolving victims in acid to erase evidence
• Strangling a 13-year-old boy to silence his father
• Detonating a bomb that killed Falcone, his wife, and three bodyguards

Brusca’s brutal methods and lack of remorse made him one of the most feared mafiosi in Sicily.

He eventually turned informant in 1996, revealing essential information about the Cosa Nostra’s operations. His testimony led to numerous convictions, but it didn’t erase the horror of his crimes.

Brusca’s story serves as a stark reminder of the violence that once dominated Sicily’s criminal underworld.

“Sonny Black” Napolitano

Sporting a jet-black pompadour, Dominick “Sonny Black” Napolitano earned his nickname from his signature hairstyle. As a prominent figure in the Bonanno crime family, he rose through the ranks to become a capo.

You’ll find his name associated with several high-profile mafia operations, including the infamous “Donnie Brasco” case.

Napolitano’s career in organized crime spanned decades, during which he oversaw various illegal activities. His downfall came when he unknowingly allowed an FBI agent, Joseph Pistone, to infiltrate his crew.

This misstep led to Napolitano’s eventual demise at the hands of his own associates. The mafia, feeling betrayed and exposed, executed him in 1981.

Sonny Black’s story serves as a cautionary tale within mob circles, highlighting the dangers of misplaced trust and the consequences of failing to properly vet new members.

“Joe Bananas” Bonanno

Joseph “Joe Bananas” Bonanno stands as one of the most influential figures in American mafia history. As the founder of the Bonanno crime family, he played a pivotal role in shaping organized crime in New York City. You’ll find his name mentioned alongside other notorious mobsters like Lucky Luciano and Carlo Gambino.

Bonanno’s nickname, “Joe Bananas,” wasn’t a reflection of his mental state but rather a play on his surname.

Here are some key facts about him:

• Born in Sicily in 1905, he immigrated to the U.S. as a child
• Became the youngest-ever boss of a New York crime family at 26
• Wrote an autobiography titled “A Man of Honor” in 1983

Despite his criminal activities, Bonanno was known for his business acumen and strategic thinking.

He died in 2002 at the age of 97, leaving behind a complex legacy.

“Matty the Horse” Ianniello

Matthew “Matty the Horse” Ianniello was a prominent figure in the Genovese crime family, known for his control over the New York City adult entertainment industry.

You’ll find his influence extended to strip clubs, peep shows, and gay bars throughout Manhattan. Ianniello earned his nickname “the Horse” due to his imposing physical stature and strength.

As a capo in the Genovese family, he oversaw various rackets, including extortion and loan sharking. His reign lasted for decades, spanning from the 1960s to the early 2000s.

Despite multiple arrests and convictions, Ianniello managed to maintain his power within the organization.

In 2006, at the age of 86, he pleaded guilty to racketeering charges and tax evasion. This marked the end of his long-standing criminal career, culminating in a two-year prison sentence.

“The Cigar” Carmine Galante

Carmine Galante, known as “The Cigar” for his ever-present stogie, was a ruthless and ambitious member of the Bonanno crime family. He rose through the ranks quickly, earning a reputation for his brutal tactics and strategic mind.

You’ll find that Galante’s nickname wasn’t just for show; he was often photographed with a cigar clenched between his teeth, even in his final moments.

Galante’s criminal career was marked by:

• His involvement in the heroin trade
• His alleged role in multiple high-profile murders
• His brief reign as the de facto boss of the Bonanno family

Despite his power and influence, Galante’s reign was short-lived. In 1979, he was assassinated while dining at a Brooklyn restaurant, his trademark cigar still in his mouth.

His death marked the end of an era in New York’s organized crime scene.

“Fat Tony” Salerno

While his nickname might suggest a jovial character, Anthony “Fat Tony” Salerno was anything but lighthearted in his criminal dealings.

As a powerful boss in the Genovese crime family, Salerno controlled vast gambling and loan sharking operations in East Harlem and the Bronx. You’d recognize him by his trademark cigars and fedora, a stark contrast to his ruthless business tactics.

Despite his outward appearance of a simple numbers runner, Salerno wielded significant influence in the underworld. He served as front boss for the secretive Genovese family, shielding the true leadership from law enforcement scrutiny.

His reign came to an end in 1986 when he was convicted in the Commission Trial, which targeted the ruling body of the American Mafia. Salerno’s downfall marked a significant blow to organized crime in New York City.

“The Grim Reaper” Greg Scarpa

Gregory Scarpa Sr., nicknamed “The Grim Reaper,” earned his chilling moniker through his ruthless efficiency as a hitman for the Colombo crime family. His career in organized crime spanned decades, during which he carried out numerous assassinations and became a feared enforcer.

Scarpa’s reputation was further enhanced by his role as an FBI informant, a position he used to manipulate both law enforcement and his criminal associates.

Key aspects of Scarpa’s criminal career include:

• Involvement in at least 50 murders
• Participation in the Third Colombo War
• Conviction for multiple RICO violations

Despite his fearsome reputation, Scarpa’s life ultimately ended in prison. He died in 1994 from complications related to AIDS, which he contracted through a blood transfusion.

His legacy as “The Grim Reaper” continues to fascinate true crime enthusiasts and serves as a stark reminder of the violent world of organized crime.

“The Octopus” Nick Gentile

Extending his influence across multiple criminal enterprises, Nicola “Nick” Gentile earned the nickname “The Octopus” for his far-reaching control in the American Mafia. Born in Sicily in 1885, Gentile immigrated to the United States in 1903, quickly climbing the ranks of organized crime.

You’ll find his tentacles spread throughout New York, Pennsylvania, and Kansas City, where he established powerful connections and oversaw various illicit operations.

Gentile’s criminal career spanned decades, during which he became a key figure in narcotics trafficking and labor racketeering. His influence extended beyond American shores, as he maintained strong ties with the Sicilian Mafia.

In 1963, Gentile published his memoirs, providing rare insider insights into the secretive world of organized crime. His legacy as “The Octopus” serves as a reflection of his vast criminal network and enduring impact on the American underworld.

“Pistol Pete” Rollack

From the old guard of organized crime, we move to a more recent figure in the criminal underworld.

Peter “Pistol Pete” Rollack, born in 1973, made a name for himself in the Bronx during the 1990s. As the leader of the notorious “Sex Money Murder” gang, Rollack’s influence extended beyond New York City.

You’ll find his criminal activities were marked by:

• Drug trafficking on a large scale
• Violent turf wars with rival gangs
• Multiple murders, including witnesses

Rollack’s reign came to an end in 1998 when he was arrested on federal charges.

In 2000, he received a life sentence plus 105 years for his crimes. Despite his incarceration, Rollack’s legacy continues to impact gang culture.

His story serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of gang involvement and the harsh consequences of a life of crime.

“The Little Guy” Anthony Spilotro

Moving from the Bronx to the glittering lights of Las Vegas, we encounter Anthony “The Little Guy” Spilotro, a notorious figure in the Chicago Outfit‘s operations during the 1970s and 1980s.

Despite his diminutive stature, standing at just 5’2″, Spilotro’s reputation loomed large in the criminal underworld. You’ll find his nickname ironic, given the outsized influence he wielded in Sin City’s illicit activities.

Spilotro oversaw the Outfit’s interests in Las Vegas, running a crew known as the “Hole in the Wall Gang.” They earned this moniker by drilling through walls and ceilings to access their targets.

His reign was marked by violence and intimidation, as he controlled street rackets, loan sharking, and casino skimming operations.

Ultimately, Spilotro’s aggressive tactics and high-profile lifestyle led to his downfall, culminating in his brutal murder in 1986.

“Nicky the Vest” Bianco

Nicholas “Nicky the Vest” Bianco’s sartorial choices were as distinctive as his criminal career. As a prominent figure in the New England Mafia, Bianco rose through the ranks to become the boss of the Patriarca crime family. His nickname stemmed from his penchant for wearing vests, a style that became his trademark.

Bianco’s reign was marked by:

• Consolidating power in Rhode Island and Massachusetts
• Expanding into legitimate businesses as fronts
• Maintaining a low profile to avoid law enforcement attention

You’ll find that Bianco’s leadership style differed from his predecessors. He focused on modernizing the family’s operations and diversifying their income streams.

Despite his efforts to keep a low profile, Bianco couldn’t evade the law forever. In 1991, he was convicted of racketeering and sentenced to 11 years in prison, effectively ending his reign as boss.

“Moe Green” Polizzi

Ever wonder how a mobster earns a nickname inspired by a fictional character? That’s the case with “Moe Green” Polizzi, whose moniker comes from a character in “The Godfather.”

Maurice “Moe” Polizzi, a Detroit mobster, gained his nickname due to similarities with the film’s Moe Greene, a casino owner in Las Vegas.

Polizzi’s career in organized crime spanned several decades, during which he operated various illegal gambling enterprises. His specialty was running numbers rackets and underground casinos, much like his fictional counterpart.

You’ll find that Polizzi’s influence extended beyond Detroit, as he’d connections with other crime families across the United States.

Despite his notoriety, Polizzi managed to avoid lengthy prison sentences, often using his political connections to stay one step ahead of law enforcement.

“Tommy Karate” Pitera

While “Moe Green” Polizzi’s nickname came from fiction, “Tommy Karate” Pitera earned his moniker through real-life skills. As a member of the Bonanno crime family, Pitera was known for his martial arts expertise and ruthless tactics.

He’d studied karate in Japan, becoming a formidable fighter and assassin. Pitera’s reputation grew as he carried out numerous hits for the mob, often dismembering his victims to dispose of the bodies.

Pitera’s notorious career included:

• Earning a black belt in karate
• Collecting victims’ belongings as trophies
• Developing a high-pitched voice due to steroid use

Despite his fearsome reputation, Pitera’s criminal activities eventually caught up with him. In 1992, he was convicted of multiple murders and drug trafficking charges, resulting in a life sentence without parole.

Pitera’s story serves as a stark reminder of the violent realities within organized crime.

“Vinny Gorgeous” Basciano

Vincent “Vinny Gorgeous” Basciano’s nickname stemmed from his good looks and ownership of a Bronx beauty salon. As a prominent figure in the Bonanno crime family, he quickly rose through the ranks to become acting boss.

You’ll find that Basciano’s criminal career was marked by violence and betrayal, leading to his eventual downfall.

Despite his charismatic appearance, Basciano was known for his ruthlessness. He ordered hits on rivals and even plotted to kill a federal prosecutor.

His reign came to an end when he was arrested in 2004 and later convicted of murder, racketeering, and conspiracy.

You’ll see that Basciano’s story serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of organized crime. Currently, he’s serving two life sentences without the possibility of parole, a fitting end to his notorious career.

Conclusion

You’ve now explored some of the most infamous Mafia nicknames, each telling a unique story of power, violence, and notoriety. These monikers aren’t just catchy; they’re windows into the complex world of organized crime.

As you’ve seen, from “Lucky” Luciano to “Vinny Gorgeous” Basciano, these names reflect personalities, reputations, and often, the brutal acts that defined their bearers. Understanding these nicknames helps you grasp the culture and hierarchy of the Mafia’s dangerous underworld.