I don't believe Gotti was afraid at all.He killed his boss in Christmas rush hr.And The Bull said Gotti's word was "fuck Chin" we will go to war with him.He would have crushed the Cherry Hill's I am sure.Now,they did push for Stanfa and he went with it.But no way afraid.Don't forget nobody could get to Demeo.Not Deccico or Gravano or Gotti.Nobody.Everyone was hesitant toward that guy.Only his Captain and crew could kill him.that is no black mark toward Gotti either.that man had the biggest balls of them all