Participation in the European Games in Krakow next week is very special for boxer Gradus Kraus (21) from Oss. A place in the last four provides a ticket for the Olympic Games in 2024. “That will be the first time that I jump into the air with bronze. But after that I will of course go for gold.”
The name Kraus is not new to the martial arts world. His father Albert was a successful kickboxer and won the well-known K1 championship in Japan in 2002. “He is my father, my best friend and my trainer. We are sometimes seen as brothers. He is 21 years older, but looks younger and my height makes me think I am older. My father is proud of me and supports me fully in my mission to become the best in the world.”
‘The best in the world’ is not like Albert in kickboxing. At the age of 16, Gradus chose boxing completely. “We were no longer allowed to hit the head in kickboxing in the Netherlands, then you get weird matches. I like boxing better, it’s bigger worldwide and the sport is more technical. Like chess, you have to think a few steps ahead. You never win without a plan. It is much more than just throwing punches.”
“I worked as a plasterer for 4.5 years and trained after working hours.”
What also played a role in his decision was the conversation with Peter Fury, a legendary English coach. He is the uncle of world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury. “He sees in me a future world champion. When someone like that says that to you, you don’t hesitate for a second. A young footballer would never say no to Messi or Ronaldo.”
As Dutch champion in the category up to 81 kilos, Gradus has been part of TeamNL for several years. He has an A status and receives a financial compensation. “I worked as a plasterer for 4.5 years and trained after working hours. Physically tough, but now I have been able to make the choice to give everything for boxing. I train twice a day, teach myself, don’t go out and live entirely for my sport. Together with my wife we have a young child and I spend a lot of time with them.”
He has already completely mapped out his career for himself. “I started as an amateur, won many competitions, built up an A-status and in 2024 to the Olympic Games. After that I want to become a professional boxer in England. I am talented and have the right connections, so there are many opportunities. You also start at the bottom of the ladder with the pros, but by building up a nice resume, you become interesting. There are professional boxers who have to add money themselves, but on the other hand you can also earn a lot of money.”
“You can take a punch, but the best part is letting them miss.”
Self-confidence is not lacking in the son of ‘The Hurricane’. “As with all other competitions, I go to the European Games to take gold. If I don’t believe in that, I’ll stay home. At the highest level I meet the best boxers, but I expect to beat them all. Sure, you can take a beating, but the best part is letting them miss. It has to be, because I want to continue as a boxer for a long time.”