As the countdown to the 2025 IBA Men’s Elite World Championships in Dubai continues, the debate over Uganda’s final technical team has taken a new twist. Today, senior trainer Herbert “Skills” Kalungi added more weight to his growing reputation after securing two wins out of three bouts for his fighters — a performance many believe could significantly boost his chances of joining the Bombers’ coaching bench for the global showpiece.

Kalungi, widely regarded as one of Uganda’s most progressive and modern trainers, oversaw victories for Bob Turyatemba and Ziikama Sabbath, while his third fighter, Malinde, suffered a competitive loss. Still, analysts say the overall performance reflects Kalungi’s strong technical direction and his ability to consistently produce results under pressure.

A Statement Performance at the Perfect Time

With discussions already underway about a possible shake-up within the national team’s coaching structure, today’s results could not have come at a better moment for Kalungi.

His fighters displayed:

• Sharp technical adaptation
• Disciplined pacing
• Improved tactical execution
• Strong corner communication

Qualities that UBF has been looking to inject into the Bombers' technical setup ahead of a tournament expected to blend amateur brilliance with professional intensity.

For many observers, Kalungi’s success today is more than a good day at the office — it is a timely demonstration of why he is being strongly considered for the Dubai assignment.

Strengthening His Bid for the Dubai Technical Team

UBF insiders have already highlighted three key reasons Kalungi is in serious contention:
 his modern approach, track record with elite pros, and ability to prepare fighters for hybrid amateur–pro formats.

Today’s victories add a fourth:

4. Proven Results Under Spotlight

With national team officials closely monitoring, Kalungi delivered two decisive wins — reinforcing the argument that he can produce medal-contending performances on the world stage.

His unbeaten prospect Bob Turyatemba, rumored to be on the leaked shortlist for the World Championships, won convincingly under Kalungi’s guidance, further showcasing the coach’s ability to refine high-level professional talent.
Ziikama Sabbath’s win added another layer of credibility, showing Kalungi's work extends beyond just one standout fighter.

Does This Boost Kalungi’s Chances?

According to insiders, absolutely.

UBF officials are believed to be considering replacing one long-serving coach whose methods have been criticized as outdated. Kalungi’s latest results — combined with his modern technical approach — may position him as the strongest candidate to fill that slot.

Today’s performance signals that:

• His training systems are effective across different fighter styles
• His corner coaching is sharp and adaptable
• His fighters consistently show discipline and tactical awareness

These are exactly the qualities Uganda hopes to take to Dubai, where the IBA Championships will offer a record $8 million prize pool, including $300,000 for gold.

A Coach Rising as Uganda Reinvents Its Boxing Identity

Uganda’s ambition is clear: build a team capable of competing with the world’s best. As the federation embraces more professional-minded preparation, coaches like Kalungi are becoming increasingly vital.

His growing momentum — strategic influence, modern techniques, and today’s winning results — positions him as a key figure in Uganda’s evolving boxing landscape.

UBF is expected to finalize its technical bench in the coming weeks, but one thing is now certain: Coach Skills has made a powerful statement, and his path to Dubai looks stronger than ever.

Whether he makes the final cut remains to be seen — but today, he proved once again why his name is at the center of Uganda’s boxing conversation.