Peter Fury claims Gradus Kraus can beat Beterbiev and Bivol

Coach Peter Fury has declared that Gradus Kraus is a knockout specialist capable of defeating top light-heavyweight fighters. Fury believes the 25-year-old is prepared to face elite champions including Artur Beterbiev, Dmitry Bivol, and Benavidez.

Speaking to IFL TV, Fury stated that Kraus is ready to compete against anyone in the division during the final months of the year. He suggested that if his management team secures a deal, Kraus would be willing to fight Beterbiev immediately. Fury described the fighter as a monster inside the ring and predicted significant future success for him.

Kraus enters this period of high confidence following a first-round stoppage victory against Sean Hemphill. The Dutch fighter has secured knockouts in 11 of his 12 professional bouts, with only one opponent avoiding a stoppage. He is scheduled to return to action in October.

Despite this momentum, Kraus has not yet competed at the world level. His potential opponents represent the highest tier of the 175lb division. Artur Beterbiev, for instance, has not competed since February 2025, when he lost his four major titles in a rematch against Dmitry Bivol.

Beterbiev's recent history includes two closely contested bouts with Bivol. He won their initial meeting via majority decision, but lost the rematch by the same margins of 116-112, 115-113, and 114-114. While Beterbiev remains a prominent figure at light-heavyweight, Kraus would be making a significant jump in competition levels.