Do you mean mob guys that can physically fight? I'm sure them 300lb and 6ft 4' guys that seemed to be a big % of the mob ,weren't to be messed with.
But like you said, it's the being part of an organisation that gives them the confidence.

In the end, what's being a good fighter in that life. (20th century). When killers with guns were all around. Its like that crime Inc. With Cantulopo " this guy is an 80 year old with no arms, eyes etc but Bobo the 350lb gorilla is scared to death of him".
.