Photo by Chris Hyde/Getty Images

‘Manny Pacquiao has bricks for hands’… Legend’s former opponent reveals what it’s like to take a punch from the icon

Originally posted on Bloody Knockout | By James Sweetnam | Last updated Aug 1, 2025 9:27 AM ET

Manny Pacquiao packs a serious punch, according to a warrior who’s tasted his power.

Over the years, the Filipino has showcased his dynamite hands on many an occasion.

Pacquiao brutally knocked out Erik Morales and rendered Ricky Hatton unconscious in a terrifying display.

And now, one fighter has opened up about what it’s really like to be hit by the eight-weight world champion.

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Photo by Chris Hyde/Getty Images

Manny Pacquiao hits very hard, says Chris Algieri

On November 23, 2014, Chris Algieri challenged Manny Pacquiao for the WBO welterweight world title, and quickly found out just how good the southpaw was.

The American got dropped six times in a brave effort, en route to losing via unanimous decision.

In an episode of Boxing Scene Today, he opened up about the phenom’s power, explaining: “Manny Pacquiao has bricks for hands. That’s just him.

“I just remember Keith Thurman saying the same thing about that, he was like, ‘Man, this guy really can crack’.

“He’s not like a huge puncher, he’s definitely fast, but his hands are like bricks, they’re just hard.

“Everything he touches you with, you really feel, and leaves marks. In fact, he actually cracked my sternum with a shot that missed my chin, but hit me in the chest, and I still have a knock to this day.

“That’s Manny Pacquiao, he’s one of the best to ever do it.”