As Uganda prepares for the 2025 IBA Men’s Elite World Championships in Dubai, fresh developments inside the national boxing camp suggest a potential shake-up within the Bombers’ technical bench. Leaked information indicates that Herbert “Skills” Kalungi — the highly respected senior trainer at Sparks Boxing Academy — is increasingly likely to be added to Uganda’s coaching team for the global tournament.

This possibility has sparked debate within boxing circles, especially with the rumored inclusion of his standout fighter, unbeaten welterweight contender Bob Turyatemba, on the national squad. While some observers question whether Kalungi’s selection may be influenced by his boxer’s presence, insiders point to deeper, performance-based reasons driving the consideration.

Why Kalungi Is Being Considered for the Dubai Assignment

Sources close to the Uganda Boxing Federation (UBF) highlight three key factors pushing Kalungi into serious contention:

1. Modern Coaching Expertise

Kalungi has earned a reputation as one of Uganda’s most innovative technical minds. His advanced padwork, tactical ring-movement systems, and modernized training methods have made him a standout among the new generation of Ugandan coaches. With the IBA Championships expected to feature both amateur and professional styles, his hybrid approach is seen as a major asset.

2. Track Record of Producing Elite Professional Talent

From guiding professional fighters to refining amateur prospects, Kalungi has consistently delivered results. His fighter Bob Turyatemba remains unbeaten in the pro ranks, while several of his gym’s boxers are now regarded as some of the sharpest technical athletes in the country. UBF insiders believe this proven ability to develop elite fighters adds value to a national team aiming for its best medal prospects in years.

3. Need for Specialized Professional-Level Coaching

With leaked lists suggesting that top professionals — Farahat “Nightmare” Manirola and Bob Turyatemba — may represent Uganda, the technical team must include coaches who understand professional conditioning, pace management, and corner tactics. Kalungi’s background in both domains places him ahead of several long-serving but outdated trainers.

Is Kalungi’s Inclusion Linked to His Fighter Bob Turyatemba?

While speculation is inevitable, sources emphasize that Kalungi’s potential appointment is not merely because his fighter is on the team. Instead, UBF technical leadership is considering him due to:

• His proven working chemistry with high-level fighters
• His ability to stabilize and guide professional athletes through high-pressure events
• His tactical flexibility, which aligns with modern IBA scoring and strategy

However, the coincidence of both trainer and fighter possibly joining the team does add fuel to public debate. UBF insiders insist selection decisions are performance-driven, not personal.

Which Coach Might Be Dropped?

If Kalungi is added, it is likely that one existing coach will be removed to maintain the standard technical bench size.

Sources indicate the most vulnerable candidate is:

 A long-serving national coach whose recent performances and tactical approaches have been criticized as outdated.

UBF technical officials have reportedly expressed concern over:

• Slower adaptation to professional-influenced boxing styles
• Limited success in recent regional and continental tournaments
• Struggles in corner communication during fast-paced bouts

While no names have been officially mentioned, insiders suggest that the federation wants a more tactically dynamic team to match the rising expectations heading into Dubai.

A Strategic Move for Uganda’s Biggest Chance in Years

With the 2025 IBA World Championships offering a historic $8 million prize pool — including $300,000 for gold — Uganda is taking no chances. The possible combination of elite professionals like Manirola and Turyatemba with modern-minded coaching could give the Bombers one of their strongest teams ever assembled.

Adding Coach Skills Kalungi may represent more than just rewarding a successful trainer — it could signal Uganda’s shift toward a more progressive and competitive boxing identity on the world stage.

UBF is expected to finalize and announce the official squad and coaching team in the coming weeks.

For now, all eyes remain on whether the federation will embrace this new direction — and whether “Coach Skills” will finally take his deserved place on the global battlefield in Dubai.