A team of boxers is preparing for a major international assignment, with five fighters set to represent Lesotho at the inaugural International Boxing Association (IBA) President’s Cup in Istanbul, Turkey, from 27 November to 2 December 2026.
The tournament presents the Lesotho Boxing Association (LeBA) with an opportunity to make history, as its boxers compete for a share of a prize purse worth approximately M50 million across 12 weight categories.
Among the selected fighters is Commonwealth Games bronze medallist Pooana Khoahli, who will lead the country’s charge in the 65kg division.
Khoahli’s inclusion brings valuable international experience to the squad, having previously represented Lesotho at the Commonwealth Games, where he returned with a bronze medal.
The team, led by coaches Limpho Leqele and Hopolang Mabele, was presented on Friday as preparations for the prestigious competition got underway.
LeBA Public Relations Officer Taole Letšasa said the technical team had already submitted its proposed squad for the tournament.
“We have a team going to the IBA President’s Cup in Turkey, and the technical team had already submitted the proposed squad,” Letšasa said.
He described Khoahli as one of the exciting prospects in the team, noting that his participation would provide another valuable opportunity to gain experience at the highest level of international boxing.
Letšasa added that the squad comprises young boxers whose participation would be an important stepping stone in developing the future of the sport in the country.
Khoahli will be joined by Tanki Nkune, who will compete in the 50kg division, Mathealira Sehlolo in the 55kg category, Toka Litabe in the 60kg division and Lerotholi Leshoboro in the 71kg category.
Despite the attractive financial rewards, the team faces a challenging assignment against experienced international opponents.
Coach Leqele acknowledged that most of his fighters would be making their debut at a competition of this magnitude and could face difficulties against boxers accustomed to competing at world championships.
“Against opponents who regularly compete in these world championships, my players will lack the experience because it will be their first time competing in this kind of a tournament,” Leqele said.
The IBA President’s Cup is expected to introduce a new elite competition pathway under the international boxing governing body, making its inaugural edition an important platform for fighters seeking to establish themselves on the global stage.
The financial incentives are also expected to raise the stakes, with the IBA offering approximately M50 million in prize money across 12 weight divisions, ranging from the 48-50kg category to the 100kg heavyweight division.
Gold medallists are expected to receive approximately M1.6 million, while silver medallists will take home around M825,000. Bronze medallists will earn approximately M412,000.
Summary
- A team of boxers is preparing for a major international assignment, with five fighters set to represent Lesotho at the inaugural International Boxing Association (IBA) President’s Cup in Istanbul, Turkey, from 27 November to 2 December 2026.
- He described Khoahli as one of the exciting prospects in the team, noting that his participation would provide another valuable opportunity to gain experience at the highest level of international boxing.
- The IBA President’s Cup is expected to introduce a new elite competition pathway under the international boxing governing body, making its inaugural edition an important platform for fighters seeking to establish themselves on the global stage.
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