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Gotti’s rivalry with Castellano intensified as Castellano adopted a more corporate approach to crime, distancing himself from the street-level operations that Gotti thrived on. Their contrasting styles reflected a divide within the family. Castellano’s aloofness and focus on white-collar crimes created a rift that Gotti was poised to exploit.
After the death of Aniello Dellacroce, a traditionalist underboss who served as a stabilizing force, Gotti saw an opportunity to challenge Castellano. On December 16, 1985, Gotti orchestrated the assassination of Castellano in a brazen act that shocked the criminal underworld. This bold move solidified Gotti’s position as the head of the Gambino family, marking his ascent to power.