Botswana's esteemed former boxer turned coach and instructor, Khumiso Ikgopoleng, is striving to make a significant impact on the international stage. Ikgopoleng, an Olympian and renowned boxer, currently resides in Bahrain, in the Middle East, where he serves as the head coach for AI Nakheel Fitness Club. According to Ikgopoleng, the clubs in Bahrain surpass those back home in Botswana in scale and scope. He likened the boxing clubs there to top European football clubs like Manchester United, with a dominance of experienced and elite athletes. Despite his base in Bahrain, Ikgopoleng's flexible work arrangement allows him to offer his services to boxing clubs in other Middle Eastern countries such as Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Qatar. "Although I'm primarily based in Bahrain, I frequently travel to Saudi Arabia and Qatar," he explained. Recently, he was in Botswana to conduct a boxing coaching course organized by the Botswana Boxing Association (BoBA). Ikgopoleng's journey into boxing began during his secondary school years and progressed steadily as he climbed the ranks to become a key member of the national team. His boxing career flourished at Lobatse Senior Secondary School in 1997, alongside figures like current BoBA president, Gilbert Khunwane. Recognized by national team coaches, Ikgopoleng's focus intensified as he dedicated himself to national duties. He spent five years in Cuba from 2001 to 2006, followed by a stint in the United States for three years before relocating to the Middle East in 2018. The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted his time in Bahrain in 2021, prompting a return to Botswana. However, upon his return to Bahrain post-pandemic, he aimed to resume his efforts in developing top-notch boxers. During his initial three-year tenure in Bahrain, Ikgopoleng successfully groomed four national team boxers, some of whom secured medals in the Asian Games and Championships. Despite challenges, he remains committed to nurturing talent and advancing the sport. Transitioning from competitive boxing to coaching, Ikgopoleng's journey was catalyzed during his time in Cuba, where he honed his skills as both a boxer and a coach. Interestingly, he revealed that most of his opportunities were not pursued through formal applications; rather, potential employers approached him based on his experience, often through his Instagram page. Reflecting on his career highlights, Ikgopoleng takes pride in representing Botswana at the 2004 and 2008 Olympic Games, becoming the first local boxer to achieve such a milestone. Through his passion for boxing and coaching, Ikgopoleng continues to inspire and make his mark in the world of sports.