Ep. 80: Ash encounters a trainer named Ritchie who resembles him and has a Pikachu.
Aired on January 7, 1999
80
Ash meets a new trainer named Ritchie, who is eerily similar to Ash, including owning a Pikachu. However, Team Rocket makes another attempt to steal Ash's and Ritchie's Pokémon. Ash and Ritchie prevent Team Rocket from stealing their Pokémon. Ash discovers his next battle is against Ritchie.
Episodes
- Ep. 76 · Ash Arrives at Indigo Plateau for Pokémon League Tournament
- Ep. 77 · Ash's First Tournament Match on the Water Field
- Ep. 78 · Ash advances to the fourth round after winning the ice arena match.
- Ep. 79 · Gary Loses to Melissa While Ash Advances Past Jeanette Fisher in the Fourth Round
- Ep. 80 · Ash encounters a trainer named Ritchie who resembles him and has a Pikachu.
- Ep. 81 · Ash Chooses to Rescue Pikachu Over Ritchie's Battle
- Ep. 82 · Ash reflects on his loss to Ritchie and supports him in the quarterfinals
- Ep. 83 · Ash returns to Pallet Town after Kanto League, then journeys to Valencia Island with evolved Pidgeot.
- Ep. 84 · Ash Wins a Blimp Ride to Valencia Island Amidst Team Rocket's Haunted Scheme