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15+ Ash’s strongest Pokémon of all time: Full 2025 power ranking explained
From electrifying League battles to unforgettable emotional victories, Ash Ketchum’s journey through the Pokémon world has left fans cheering for decades. In this post, we dive into Ash’s strongest Pokémon, ranked and analyzed with fans and collectors in mind. Whether you’re here to relive iconic anime moments or searching for top-tier Pokémon figures, Japan Figure is your go-to destination for authentic, Japan-exclusive collectibles. Let’s explore which Pokémon truly earned their title as Ash’s mightiest.
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1. What is Ash’s strongest Pokémon?
Determining Ash’s strongest Pokémon isn’t just about raw power, it’s about heart, battle history, evolution, and that deep emotional connection Ash shares with his team. Over 25+ seasons of anime, fans have seen underdogs rise, legends fall, and friendships grow stronger than Mega Evolutions.
Here’s what makes a Pokémon qualify as Ash’s strongest:
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Battle achievements in Leagues, Gym matches, and special tournaments
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Signature transformations like Ash-Greninja or Mega Lucario
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Strategic intelligence and resilience in high-stakes matches
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Emotional connection and bond with Ash, sometimes defying logic and stats
Key traits that define Ash’s strongest Pokémon:
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Long-term companionship and narrative development
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Victory over Legendary or Champion-tier Pokémon
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Signature moves, unique forms, or special training (e.g., Aura training for Lucario)
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Role in major story arcs and tournaments (especially World Coronation Series & regional Leagues)
When fans ask "what is Ash’s strongest Pokémon?", the answer isn’t always simple, but it’s always thrilling.
2. Top 15+ Ash's strongest Pokémon ranked
From iconic early partners to recent tournament champions, these Pokémon represent the very best of what Ash’s team can achieve. Below is a deep dive into Ash’s strongest Pokémon, ranked by battle records, transformations, emotional arcs, and their lasting legacy in the anime.
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Pikachu
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Greninja
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Goodra
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Lucario
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Dragonite
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Incineroar
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Torterra
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Staraptor
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Charizard
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Gengar
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Infernape
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Snorlax
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Sceptile
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Nebby (Solgaleo)
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Bulbasaur
2.1. Pikachu
Pikachu is not only Ash’s first Pokémon but also his most iconic and consistent battler. From defeating legendaries like Regice and Tapu Koko to going head-to-head with Leon’s Charizard in the Masters Eight Tournament, Pikachu has proven time and again that power doesn't rely on evolution. Over the course of 25+ years, this Electric-type has showcased adaptability, strategic thinking, and loyalty that goes beyond stats or moves.
More than just a mascot, Pikachu has grown alongside Ash and remained a critical part of his team in every major region and league. In Pokémon Journeys, Pikachu reached a new peak by defeating Leon’s ace in the final match. That moment solidified its place at the top of the rankings for Ash’s strongest Pokémon, not just emotionally, but competitively too.
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Ranking: Top 1 overall
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Special features: Electric-type mastery, 10 Million Volt Thunderbolt, Iron Tail
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Battle highlights: Victory against Tapu Koko and Leon’s Charizard
2.2. Greninja
Ash’s Greninja (a.k.a one of the most popular Pokemon) became legendary for unlocking the Bond Phenomenon, a unique transformation tied to his connection with Ash rather than Mega Evolution or Dynamax. This Water/Dark-type Pokémon was known for its unmatched speed, shuriken-based attacks, and its critical role in Ash’s journey through the Kalos region. Its debut during the Kalos League brought fans one of the most hyped battles in anime history.
Despite falling short in the finals against Alain, Greninja's bond with Ash placed it on a tier above nearly every other partner. Even after parting ways, Greninja was called upon again in Pokémon Journeys, proving that its strength and connection with Ash were long-lasting. It's one of the most beloved Pokémon in the fanbase and frequently tops polls for Ash’s strongest Pokémon.
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Ranking: Top 2 for speed and synergy
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Special features: Bond Phenomenon, Water Shuriken, aerial agility
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Battle highlights: Kalos League finals, repeated wins against powerful opponents
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2.3. Goodra
Goodra, Ash’s first fully-evolved pseudo-legendary Dragon-type (and also one of the weirdest Pokemon evolutions), brought both power and emotional resonance to the Kalos region. Despite its soft and gooey appearance, Goodra showcased incredible durability and resistance to status effects like paralysis and poison. It became a defensive powerhouse during its battles and helped Ash secure wins against opponents that specialized in tactical stalls.
Beyond its battle prowess, Goodra’s character arc added depth. Ash released Goodra temporarily to help its wild friends, highlighting the trust and growth between trainer and Pokémon. Later, it returned to help during key matches, proving that strength also lies in empathy and loyalty, qualities that helped Goodra become one of Ash’s most underrated but elite team members.
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Ranking: Top 5 for defense and emotional depth
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Special features: High HP, Sludge Bomb, Dragon Pulse
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Battle highlights: Kalos Gym battles, team reinforcements in final leagues
2.4. Lucario
Ash’s Lucario, introduced in Pokémon Journeys, quickly became a fan-favorite thanks to its role in the Masters Eight Tournament and its Mega Evolution arc. Trained in Aura Sphere techniques and partnered closely with Sir Aaron's legacy, Lucario became a reflection of Ash’s maturity as a trainer. It delivered decisive blows during Ash’s run to become World Champion, including a win against Cynthia’s Togekiss.
Lucario’s narrative growth mirrored its battle strength. From hatching as a Riolu egg to unlocking Mega Evolution, Lucario’s journey showcased its bond with Ash and tactical prowess. Combining speed, power, and precision, Lucario exemplified everything that makes a Pokémon both iconic and effective in high-stakes matches.
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Ranking: Top 3 in Journeys-era performance
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Special features: Aura Sphere, Bone Rush, Mega Evolution
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Battle highlights: Win against Cynthia’s Togekiss, pivotal strikes in Masters Eight
2.5. Dragonite
Ash’s Dragonite entered his team during Pokémon Journeys and immediately stood out with its calm temperament and incredible battle power. Despite its gentle nature, Dragonite became a strong offensive and defensive force in Ash’s team. Its battles against Korrina’s Pokémon and its clutch victories in several World Coronation Series matches elevated its reputation quickly.
The Flying/Dragon-type’s versatility, particularly with moves like Hyper Beam and Dragon Claw, allowed Ash to adapt quickly against multiple strategies. Dragonite also served as a reminder that strength doesn’t have to be aggressive, it can be quietly reliable. For a Pokémon caught later in Ash’s career, Dragonite rapidly became one of his most trusted partners.
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Ranking: Top 6 for consistency and power
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Special features: Hyper Beam, Dragon Tail, extreme endurance
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Battle highlights: World Coronation victories, team cornerstone during Journeys
2.6. Incineroar
Incineroar evolved during Ash’s time in the Alola region and quickly became one of his most formidable Fire-type Pokémon. Though it evolved late, during the Manalo Conference finals, its growth was fast and furious. Known for its wrestler-like style, Incineroar excelled in close-combat battles with a showy flair that matched its Dark/Fire typing. It secured Ash’s Alola League championship, marking the first official Pokémon League title Ash ever won.
What made Incineroar special wasn’t just its power, but its storytelling. The evolution happened in the heat of the final battle, highlighting its dramatic growth and Ash’s long-term vision for his team. Incineroar’s emotional bond with its pre-evolution, Litten, and mentor, Professor Kukui’s Incineroar, gave its development an unforgettable emotional weight.
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Ranking: Top 10 for championship significance
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Special features: Fire-type dominance, Darkest Lariat, pro-wrestling style
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Battle highlights: Evolved during Alola League finals
2.7. Torterra
Torterra was a powerhouse during Ash’s Sinnoh journey and one of his few fully-evolved starters. Although its win-loss record wasn’t the best, Torterra's raw strength and defensive abilities made it a reliable tank in battle. Its massive frame, Earthquake moves, and Grass/Ground typing allowed it to endure tough opponents.
Despite struggling against faster Pokémon, Torterra’s value lies in its strategic utility and Ash’s growth as a trainer. It wasn’t always flashy, but its evolution from Turtwig to Grotle to Torterra showed Ash’s dedication to raising Pokémon with patience and vision, even when they’re not always the fastest or most agile.
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Ranking: Mid-tier strength with high endurance
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Special features: Earthquake, Energy Ball, strong defense
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Battle highlights: Core Sinnoh team member with several Gym wins
2.8. Staraptor
One of Ash’s best regional fliers, Staraptor stood out with its mix of aerial speed and precision. A reliable part of the Sinnoh team, Staraptor showcased incredible agility and offensive capabilities with moves like Brave Bird and Close Combat. It consistently performed well in Gym battles and was often used to gain the upper hand early in a match.
Staraptor's evolution journey, from Starly to Staravia to Staraptor, demonstrated Ash's skill in training Flying-types to reach their full potential. Unlike some of his other birds, Staraptor maintained a more aggressive, combat-focused style that made it invaluable against both ground and fighting-type foes.
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Ranking: Top-tier regional flier
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Special features: Brave Bird, Close Combat, impressive aerial speed
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Battle highlights: Dominant performance in Gym and League battles
2.9. Charizard
Charizard is one of the most iconic Pokémon in Ash’s roster and among the most beloved by fans. It began as a disobedient Charmander, evolved into a powerhouse, and became a staple in high-stakes battles. With a rich history of redemption and growth, Charizard's story mirrors Ash’s maturity as a trainer. It famously defeated Articuno in the Battle Frontier and has been recalled multiple times during important league matches.
Charizard’s strength lies in its powerful Fire/Flying typing and signature moves like Flamethrower and Seismic Toss. Despite periods of absence, whenever Ash calls upon Charizard, it delivers in critical moments, making it a legacy fighter with impressive staying power.
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Ranking: Among top legacy Pokémon
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Special features: Flamethrower, Seismic Toss, wins against legendaries
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Battle highlights: Win vs. Articuno, key fighter in multiple regions
2.10. Gengar
Gengar, caught in Pokémon Journeys, quickly became one of Ash’s heaviest hitters. After initial trouble fitting in, Gengar blossomed into a confident battler, eventually gaining a Gigantamax form. This development massively boosted its power, turning it into a game-changer during the Masters Eight Tournament. Gengar’s signature Ghost-type attacks and speed made it a great counter to defensive Pokémon.
If you know how to evolve Haunter to Gengar, you'll know Gengar’s evolution as a character is just as significant as its combat prowess. Its backstory involved being abandoned by a previous trainer, which made its bond with Ash all the more meaningful. From an underdog to a champion-tier Pokémon, Gengar represents redemption and trust.
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Ranking: Top 5 among Journeys team
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Special features: Gigantamax form, Ghost-type coverage
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Battle highlights: Wins against Raihan’s Flygon and major tournament matchups
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2.11. Infernape
Infernape was the star of Ash’s Sinnoh team and had one of the most compelling character arcs in the anime. Originally abandoned by Paul, Infernape’s growth under Ash’s care became symbolic of second chances. Its mastery of Blaze ability allowed it to dominate late-stage battles, including a dramatic face-off against Electivire in the Sinnoh League.
More than just a powerful Fire/Fighting-type, Infernape represented Ash’s training philosophy: empathy, consistency, and trust. With explosive power and passionate determination, it earned its place among Ash’s all-time best.
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Ranking: Top 3 for emotional story and battle impact
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Special features: Blaze activation, Mach Punch, Flare Blitz
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Battle highlights: Victory over Paul’s Electivire in Sinnoh League
2.12. Snorlax
Snorlax, Ash's rarest Pokémon, may be slow, but it’s an absolute tank. Ash’s Snorlax proved itself repeatedly in Johto and other special tournaments by enduring tremendous damage and hitting back even harder. With a versatile move set that includes Hyper Beam, Ice Punch, and Rest, Snorlax can outlast and overpower even the most agile opponents.
Though rarely used after the Johto arc, Snorlax has returned in select battles to great effect. Its massive stamina and surprising agility (given its size) make it one of Ash’s most reliable big hitters.
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Ranking: Top for endurance and surprise tactics
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Special features: Rest + Sleep Talk, elemental punches, immense power
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Battle highlights: Multiple victories in the Battle Frontier and tournaments
2.13. Sceptile
Sceptile is best remembered for defeating Tobias’s Darkrai in the Sinnoh League, a legendary feat. Its speed, precision, and Grass-type tactics made it one of Ash’s most technically skilled battlers. Even in earlier battles, it showed great discipline and execution, often using Leaf Blade and Quick Attack with expert timing.
The Sinnoh League moment solidified Sceptile’s status as one of Ash’s best underdog champions. It showed that even without flashy evolutions or special forms, a well-trained Pokémon could overcome impossible odds.
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Ranking: High for tactical value and key victories
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Special features: Leaf Blade, agility, battle IQ
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Battle highlights: Defeating Darkrai, major Gym and League wins
2.14. Nebby (Solgaleo)
Nebby, also known as Solgaleo, played a pivotal role in the Sun and Moon series. While it wasn’t technically part of Ash’s main team in the traditional battling sense, Solgaleo did travel with Ash and help him in critical situations, especially during the Ultra Beast conflict. As a Legendary Pokémon, Nebby possessed cosmic-level strength and plot-driving abilities.
Though not used in competitive battles, Nebby’s presence elevated Ash’s role in the Alola story. Its impact on the narrative, and its transformation from a cute Cosmog into a mighty Solgaleo, left a lasting impression on fans.
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Ranking: Unique legendary bond
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Special features: Sunsteel Strike, interdimensional travel
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Story highlight: Helped Ash traverse Ultra Space and resolve the main arc
2.15. Bulbasaur
Ash’s Bulbasaur never evolved, but it didn’t need to. This loyal Grass-type Pokémon held its ground in countless battles during the original series and returned for multiple cameos in later generations. Known for its leadership skills at Professor Oak’s lab and its mastery of moves like Vine Whip and Sleep Powder, Bulbasaur is the heart of Ash’s Kanto team.
Bulbasaur's strength lies in its consistency and adaptability. It’s one of the few Pokémon Ash regularly called upon during emergencies, and its role as peacekeeper among Pokémon further showcases its emotional intelligence.
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Ranking: Most reliable unevolved Pokémon
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Special features: Sleep Powder, SolarBeam, team leadership
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Battle highlights: Multiple League appearances, clutch performances in Kanto and Johto
3. FAQs – People also ask about Ash’s strongest Pokémon
Before we wrap up, let’s answer the most frequently asked fan questions about Ash’s strongest Pokémon, based on Google trends, anime forums, and Pokémon community insights.
3.1. What is Ash's most legendary Pokémon?
Ash’s most legendary Pokémon is Solgaleo (Nebby), which he befriended during the Sun and Moon series. While it didn’t participate in many traditional battles, Solgaleo played a crucial role in interdimensional travel and story resolution, making it Ash’s most powerful legendary companion by lore.
3.2. Is Ash's Pikachu level 100?
While Pokémon anime doesn’t follow game-level mechanics, fans often consider Ash’s Pikachu to be at level 100 due to its strength and experience. Pikachu has defeated numerous evolved and legendary Pokémon, making it arguably the most battle-tested Pokémon in Ash’s team.
3.3. What is Ash's rarest Pokémon?
Ash’s rarest Pokémon could be Melmetal, a Mythical Steel-type that evolved from Meltan in Pokémon Journeys. It is not only incredibly rare but also unique for being the only Pokémon in Ash’s collection that evolved via fusion, something never seen before in the anime.
3.4. What is Ash's weakest Pokémon?
Among Ash’s team, Palpitoad or Boldore are sometimes viewed as weaker due to minimal screentime and fewer notable victories. However, they still contributed in regional battles. In terms of narrative weight and popularity, they rank below others like Pikachu or Infernape.
3.5. Is Greninja Ash's strongest Pokémon?
Many fans argue Ash-Greninja is his strongest Pokémon, especially due to the Bond Phenomenon, which gave it unmatched power. While Pikachu remains central to Ash’s team, Greninja had some of the most visually powerful moments in the anime.
3.6. What is Ash's strongest Pokémon team?
Ash’s strongest team would likely include Pikachu, Greninja, Lucario, Charizard, Infernape, and Sceptile, a combination of powerhouses across regions. This dream team blends strategy, type coverage, and Ash’s deepest bonds, making it his ultimate 6v6 lineup.
3.7. Why did Ash's Pikachu never evolve?
Ash’s Pikachu chose not to evolve into Raichu early in the anime, symbolizing the theme of staying true to yourself. Ash respected this decision, and the duo proved that evolution isn’t the only path to greatness, solidifying Pikachu’s iconic role as Ash’s strongest Pokémon.
3.8. What level is Ash's Greninja?
While levels aren’t used in the anime, Ash’s Greninja is estimated by fans to be equivalent to level 90–100 based on its performance. Its battle against Mega Charizard X in the Kalos finals highlighted its elite-tier strength.
3.9. Why is Ash's Pikachu so special?
Ash’s Pikachu is special because of its unbreakable bond with Ash, its unique moves like Volt Tackle and 10 Million Volt Thunderbolt, and its ability to defeat Legendary Pokémon. Pikachu’s character development also makes it the emotional heart of the entire Pokémon anime.
3.10. Why did Pikachu hate Ash at first?
In the first episode, Pikachu distrusted Ash and refused to obey him. This changed when Ash risked his life to protect Pikachu from a flock of Spearow, sparking their lifelong friendship and setting the foundation for every battle that followed.
3.11. Who is Ash's strongest Pokémon other than Pikachu?
Aside from Pikachu, Ash’s Greninja or Lucario are widely regarded as his strongest. Greninja’s Bond Phenomenon gave it unique transformation abilities, while Lucario’s Mega Evolution helped him win against Champion-tier opponents like Cynthia.
3.12. Who is Ash's strongest Pokémon in Journeys?
In Pokémon Journeys, Ash’s strongest Pokémon was Mega Lucario, closely followed by Gengar (Gigantamax) and Dragonite. Lucario played the key role in his victory at the World Coronation Series, solidifying its place as his MVP in this era.
3.13. Is Pikachu Ash's strongest Pokémon?
Yes, most fans and anime evidence point to Pikachu being Ash’s strongest Pokémon overall. It has faced and beaten powerful opponents from every generation, served as Ash’s partner from day one, and is the only constant in every major championship.
Ash’s strongest Pokémon have played a major role in his journey to becoming the World Champion, with each powerhouse contributing to key victories across multiple regions. These weren’t just strong in terms of stats or flashy transformations, they represented growth, resilience, and storytelling that kept fans hooked for decades.
Whether you're a long-time anime watcher or a new collector, now’s the perfect time to bring a piece of that legacy home. At Japan Figure, you can explore official, authentic Pokémon figures, from Pikachu’s most iconic poses to rare collectibles like Ash-Greninja or Mega Lucario. Start or expand your collection with the most iconic characters from the anime we all love.
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