I don't agree with this theory. The Genovese family had plenty of capable guys who could've filled the spot.
Has nothing to do with having "capable guys", especially if there were 2 sides ready to hit the mattresses. It could have been a temporary stop gap to prevent bloodshed. Maybe Bufalino was more of a mediator than an acting boss?
Are there any credible sources to this story or did it start on the internet?
