Pokémon: One of Ash’s oldest rivals appears in the current anime – do you remember him?

In the current Pokémon anime, Ash Ketchum once again competes in a major tournament.

The Pokémon tournament in the current episodes of the anime series fits the franchise’s big anniversary. It probably doesn’t feel like a single celebration without a reason and, with the help of a few trainers and homages, to a certain extent review the events of the last 25 years. This also includes a brief cameo appearance of Ash Ketchum’s old acquaintance and former great rival – Ritchie.

One of Ash’s oldest rivals appears in the current Pokémon anime

This happens in the anime: Ash Ketchum is currently fighting for the title in a major Pokémon tournament. The event spans the globe and, accordingly, the most diverse regions, trainers and Pokémon appear. Our favorite trainer not only meets some new opponents, but of course also many old faces.

The last episode starred the champion of the Johto and Kanto regions named Lance. Addressing his fans in the regions with a message, Ritchie is briefly seen following the fights of the tournament. By his side is his trusty Pikachu Pokémon, Sparky.

Here’s the short scene that may have puzzled many long-time fans:

link to Twitter content

Who is Ritchie? Ritchie aka Richie is one of Ash Ketchum’s oldest rivals and friends. The two trainers met in the very early episodes of the anime series and took on Team Rocket together. Among other things, however, they also had to compete against each other in the Indigo League. Ash even loses a fight against Richie.

Speaking of Ash: The trainer finally makes its real video game debut after all this time:

Fans celebrate the cameo: Richie’s brief appearance on Twitter was received very positively. Most Pokémon viewers seem to be very happy about the short nostalgic memory of very old Pokémon times. The basic tenor is that although it was an unexpected, surprising reunion, it was also a thoroughly welcome one.