Vito LoGrasso, widely known as Big Vito in WWE, left the promotion over a decade ago but has remained an active figure in professional wrestling and beyond. From his early days in WCW and ECW to his memorable run in WWE’s Full Blooded Italians, and onto the independent circuit, Vito’s journey reflects a career full of reinvention and passion for wrestling.
The Rise of Big Vito: WCW and WWE Highlights
Vito debuted in WCW in 1999 under the ring name Big Vito and quickly made a name for himself by forming The Mamalukes alongside Johnny the Bull. Managed by Tony Marinara, this tag team secured the WCW World Tag Team Championship twice and even held the WCW Hardcore Championship in storyline—an accolade Vito won in a match against his own partner. Known for his Staten Island roots, where he was legitimately from, Vito brought a combination of toughness and Italian-American charisma to the ring[1][4].
After WCW was acquired by WWE in 2001, Vito spent a few years in smaller promotions and Total Nonstop Action Wrestling (TNA) before returning to WWE in 2005. His WWE debut was marked on the August 6 episode of Velocity, where he helped Nunzio capture the Cruiserweight Championship from Paul London. He then rejoined Nunzio to reform the Full Blooded Italians (FBI), a faction that was a fan favorite for their mix of humor and solid tag work. However, Vito’s WWE run took a notable turn when he adopted a controversial “Godfather” gimmick that evolved into cross-dressing segments—an angle that garnered mixed reactions but showed his willingness to push boundaries[2][3].
Life After WWE: Independent Circuits and Championship Pursuits
Following his WWE departure in 2007, Vito continued to wrestle on the independent scene until around 2014 and beyond with occasional returns to wrestling as a part-time competitor into 2022. During this period, he captured several titles including the Deep South Wrestling (DSW) Heavyweight Championship, the IWA Puerto Rico Intercontinental title, and multiple heavyweight championships in regional promotions like Big Time Wrestling and American Championship Pro Wrestling[1][4].
Vito also dropped his dress-wearing Godfather persona and shifted to a more traditional in-ring style, adopting martial arts trunks and a headband during his post-WWE tenure. This change was partly attributed to complaints from opponents about his previous gimmick being a distraction—a realignment that helped him maintain credibility as a serious wrestler[4].
Behind the Curtain: Sources Close to Vito Reveal His Dedication
According to a WWE insider familiar with Vito’s career, the wrestler “always brought 100% in the ring and was open to experimenting with character work, even when the ideas were risky.” The source added that after leaving WWE, Vito stayed true to his passion for wrestling and mentoring younger talent on the independent circuit. “He’s one of those guys who loves the sport, not just the spotlight,” the insider noted.
This dedication is reflected in Vito’s willingness to compete at various levels and venues, sustaining a consistent presence in the wrestling community. Whether cutting promos or holding championships on smaller stages, he has demonstrated resilience and adaptability.
What’s Next for Big Vito?
Although no longer a regular on major televised wrestling programs, Big Vito remains active in wrestling-related events and occasionally appears at conventions and fan shows. His legacy, especially within the WWE universe, is that of a memorable character who contributed to the tag team scene and was never afraid to take chances with his persona.
Recent sightings suggest he participates in select indie matches and supports upcoming wrestlers, lending his experience and name recognition. Wrestling fans who grew up watching Big Vito still fondly recall his unique style and contributions during wrestling’s peak era of the late 1990s and 2000s.
Big Vito’s story from the wild WCW tag team battles to the colorful WWE gimmicks and then to championship reigns in the independents paints the picture of a wrestler who continuously evolved while staying true to his roots and love for the sport. Whether under the spotlight or behind the scenes, Vito LoGrasso remains a respected figure in professional wrestling circles.