Original Title: Nyorozo's Evolution!
Original Airdate: May 9, 2002
US Airdate: May 10, 2003
On meeting up with a proud Pokémon Trainer who dares all comers to face his Poliwrath, Misty and Ash quickly rise to the challenge. Misty, in particular, encourages her Poliwhirl to watch closely as it may someday evolve into a Poliwrath. As is often the case, the battle isn't long over before this challenger and Ash and Misty have become fast friends. Meanwhile, Team Rocket, having furtively observed this battle and been convinced that the Poliwrath is a match even for Pikachu, decide to first capture it and then use it to capture Pikachu. Unfortunately, this logic does not hold as they find capturing a Pokémon stronger than Pikachu even more difficult than simply capturing Pikachu. A surprise is in store for Misty, as her Poliwhirl evolves not into a Poliwrath, but into another Pokémon altogether
This episode contains examples of the following tropes:
- The Ace: Delayney's Poliwrath seems to be this for the town. It defeated eight opponents in a row (including Misty's Poliwhirl) before getting worn down by Ash's Bayleef.
- Hoist by Their Own Petard: The machine Jessie uses to control Poliwrath eventually ends up on her, leaving her at the mercy of Meowth, James and Misty.
- Instantly Proven Wrong: Misty takes issue with Ash's insinuation that she's going to lose against Poliwrath. Not even a minute later and Poliwhirl lays defeated on the ground.
- Phony Psychic: Jessie dresses up as one this episode.
- Small Role, Big Impact: A Chansey mopping the floor in the Pokémon Center leads to Ash slipping and the contents of his bag spilling out, including his King's Rock. Poliwhirl picks it up when Misty returns him, and then has him healed by Nurse Joy, leading to his evolution.
- Took a Level in Badass: Misty's Poliwhirl evolves into Politoed and learns Swagger.
