Ep. 8: Ash encounters an undefeated Gym Leader with a Sandshrew that counters his Flying types.

8

Traveling toward Vermillion City, Ash meets AJ, an unsanctioned Gym Leader boasting 98 wins and zero losses. Their battle surprises Ash, as AJ’s Ground-type Sandshrew easily defeats his Flying-type Pokémon, defying standard type advantages. The group observes AJ’s rigorous training methods, including forcing Sandshrew to swim despite its weakness to Water-type attacks. While Brock admires the intensity, Ash disapproves. After Ash requests a rematch and AJ refuses, an argument ensues, leading both boys to fall into the pool. During the commotion, AJ’s Sandshrew disappears, raising questions about the harshness of the training and the fate of the missing Pokémon.