“Lightning Fast!” Al Siesta Breaks Down How Dangerous Manny Pacquiao Still Is

In a riveting analysis that has reignited excitement among boxing fans, renowned trainer and analyst Al Siesta has declared that Manny Pacquiao, at 46 years old, remains a “lightning-fast” and formidable force in the ring. Speaking on his popular podcast The Fight Breakdown yesterday, June 17, 2025, Siesta dissected the Filipino legend’s enduring skills, sparking widespread debate about Pacquiao’s potential comeback against today’s top fighters.

A Timeless Champion

Pacquiao, an eight-division world champion and global icon, last fought in 2021, losing a decision to Yordenis Ugás. Since then, the boxing world has speculated about his return, with rumors of exhibition bouts and even a potential clash with rising stars like Terence Crawford or Ryan Garcia. Siesta, a respected figure who has trained multiple world champions, insists that Pacquiao’s unique blend of speed, power, and experience makes him a threat to anyone, even in 2025.

“Manny’s still lightning fast—his hands, his feet, his reflexes,” Siesta said. “People forget how dangerous he is because of his age, but I’ve seen recent sparring footage. He’s still got that killer instinct, and his angles are unreal. Put him in with anyone at 147 or 154 pounds, and he’s trouble.”

Breaking Down Pacquiao’s Arsenal

Siesta highlighted several aspects of Pacquiao’s game that keep him relevant. First, his footwork remains “unpredictable,” allowing him to dart in and out of range while landing flurries. Second, his power, though not as devastating as in his prime, is still enough to hurt top-tier opponents, especially when combined with his volume punching. Finally, Siesta emphasized Pacquiao’s ring IQ, honed over decades against legends like Floyd Mayweather, Juan Manuel Márquez, and Miguel Cotto.

“What makes Manny dangerous is he’s seen it all,” Siesta explained. “He’s fought every style, and he adapts on the fly. You can’t prepare for his rhythm—it’s chaos in there, and he thrives in it.” Siesta pointed to Pacquiao’s 2019 upset over Keith Thurman, when the then-40-year-old outclassed a younger, prime champion, as evidence of his timeless ability.

The Comeback Buzz

Pacquiao’s recent activity has fueled speculation about a return. In early 2025, he competed in an exhibition bout in Japan, showcasing flashes of his vintage speed. Posts on X from fans who attended described him as “still a blur in the ring.” Now, with talks of a professional comeback gaining traction, Siesta believes Pacquiao could target a high-profile fight to cement his legacy further.

On X, the hashtag #PacquiaoComeback is trending, with fans divided. One user wrote, “Manny at 46 is still faster than half the welterweights today. Sign me up for Pacquiao vs. Crawford!” Another cautioned, “Love Manny, but father time is undefeated. He should stay retired.” Siesta, however, dismissed concerns about age, noting that Pacquiao’s lifestyle—disciplined training and minimal wear from knockouts—has preserved his physical condition.

Who Could Pacquiao Face?

Siesta speculated on potential opponents, naming Crawford, the welterweight king, as a dream fight. “Crawford’s a technician, but Manny’s volume and angles could give him fits,” he said. He also mentioned Garcia, whose speed could match Pacquiao’s but whose defense might crumble under pressure. A less likely but intriguing option is a rematch with Ugás, who has expressed interest in facing Pacquiao again.

Siesta also addressed the possibility of Pacquiao moving up to 154 pounds to challenge for a title, citing his history of defying weight class expectations. “Manny beat Margarito at super welterweight when people thought he was too small,” Siesta recalled. “Don’t bet against him now.”

A Dangerous Legacy

Pacquiao’s potential return has the boxing world on edge, with promoters reportedly eyeing a 2026 fight in Saudi Arabia or Las Vegas. Siesta’s analysis has only amplified the hype, painting Pacquiao as a fighter who defies time and logic. “He’s not just a legend—he’s a problem,” Siesta concluded. “Anyone who steps in with Manny is rolling the dice.”

As fans await confirmation of Pacquiao’s next move, Siesta’s breakdown has reminded the world why the “PacMan” remains one of boxing’s most beloved and dangerous figures. Will the lightning-fast icon shock the sport once again? The ring awaits his answer.