Matranga was born in Balestrati, Sicily and upon his arrival in California became a prominent underworld figure during three decades. He was married to Frances Priziola, the daughter of powerful Detroit mafioso John Priziola. He was related to several Inland Valley, San Diego and Los Angeles crime figures, including San Diego faction leader Joseph Matranga. He and his brothers, Joseph and Gaspare Matranga, owned many bars in the downtown area of San Diego. During his time in San Diego Matranga was involved in narcotics trafficking and was considered one of the most powerful younger members of the mafia in San Diego. Matranga was a friend and associate of L.A. family underboss Joseph Dippolito. He later relocated his base of operations to Los Angeles where he became a Capo of the Los Angele