Ash challenges A.J. , but his team is swiftly defeated by A.J.’s powerhouse . Shockingly, Sandshrew even beats Ash's Flying-type Butterfree, despite having a type disadvantage.
The conflict is interrupted when accidentally kidnaps A.J.’s Sandshrew, thinking it is Pikachu. Seeing A.J.’s genuine distress and his joyful reunion with Sandshrew once it escapes confirms the strong bond between them. Pokemon_Ep_008_ITA.mp4
A.J. then battles Team Rocket, and Sandshrew uses the powerful move to defeat them, securing A.J.’s 100th win . Having reached his goal, A.J. closes his unofficial gym to finally travel and collect official league badges, parting ways with Ash as a respectful rival. EP008 - The Path to the Pokémon League - Bulbapedia Ash challenges A