The heroes arrive to Ever Grande City, the site of the Hoenn League. On May's request, they go around town for a noodle shop, but end up getting assaulted by a group of Murkrow. In that moment, a Meowth, wearing a hat and boots, attacks the Murkrow and disperses them. Its trainer, Tyson, greets the group, and adds that he is also a participant of the League. Moreover, he is also a torchbearer of the Moltres flame, which Team Rocket intend on stealing.

The Hoenn League has come and Ash has managed to get through to the proper league. His new rival Morrison has also progressed this far and must win a battle against a Marowak & Machamp. Ash meanwhile has to go through a tough battle against a Tropius & a Swalot with his Corphish & Torkoal. Will Ash manage to get through to the next round of the finals?