Anything Goes with James English From Killer to Snitch - Mafia Boss Sammy the Bull
Nov 15, 2025
Salvatore "Sammy the Bull" Gravano, a former underboss in the Mafia, opens up about his tumultuous life from mobster to government witness. He shares gripping tales of his early years in Brooklyn, his military service, and joining organized crime. Sammy discusses the brutal realities of mafia life, including murder planning and his emotional reactions to his first hit. He reflects on loyalty, the life lessons he learned, and the painful decision to cooperate with authorities. Now a social media personality, he emphasizes the importance of self-honesty and resilience.
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Early Recruitment In Bensonhurst
- Sammy Gravano grew up dyslexic in Bensonhurst and joined local gangs before being recruited as an associate by Shorty Spiro in the Colombo family.
- He accepted the protection and sense of family the Mafia offered despite knowing it involved violence and killing.
Bullying Shaped His Path
- Dyslexia and school humiliation pushed Gravano toward fighting and earning respect through violence.
- He used physical toughness to stop teasing and to fit into a male-dominated social hierarchy.
How 'Sammy The Bull' Began
- As a child Sammy fought to protect his bike and earned the nickname "Sammy the Bull" after a mafioso intervened and praised his fighting spirit.
- That nickname stuck and followed him into adulthood and criminal notoriety.