New Rival for Ash?

[Elite4James]

Episode 101's title has been revealed as 'Rival Trainer Jun Appears!'
Jun is one of the default names for the rival character in the Diamond and Pearl games.
I'm actually a bit excited about the introduction of this character, it's been a while since they actually introduced a rival character that was in-game. The only other one that's appeared in the main series is Gary to be honest. Brendan appears in cameos in two of the Advanced Generation Movies, Wally was no where to be seen and as the the GSC characters, like the rest of Johto it seems they are best forgotten by the Pokemon Universe.
No other details have been revealed, even here in Japan, but I am curious to know if this character will become a new rival for Ash. It would certainly make things more interesting having another rival around.
This will air November 6th in Japan, and that isn't too far away!

[masterofmirage]

You're right... about the past rivals, at least.

Question: Any idea from the trailer (if any) about the role of Jun?

[DaveTheFishandChipsGuy]

Nice find James. That passed my mind when I saw the name of the episode.

I'll be watching out for details with interest.....

[Praetor]

I would say Paul.

Both Ash and Paul are complete opposites, so they make great rivals.

[timoteyo7]

Paul too, I have always got this idea about ash and his rivals... its like he cares more for what they think then anyone else... this is why I seriously think Ash is gay...

[Elite4James]

Oct 19, 2008 13:01:55 GMT 12 masterofmirage said:

You're right... about the past rivals, at least.

Question: Any idea from the trailer (if any) about the role of Jun?

According to recent previews Jun will take on the role of a rival for Ash.
He is going to be very much like how he is in the video games.
He first meets Ash by running into him. He has an Empoleon, Roserade and Staraptor.
He also helps Ash narrate the preview for his episode, which is not something a COTD does. He demands a Pokemon battle from Ash and also fines him money (like the rival in DPPt does).
I'm looking forward to the debut of this character immensely.

[Midnightmoon602]

useing money? interesting....

anyway i think Paul is MAD rival for Ash right now. but i would like Lucas (From and Diamond and Pearl game) to show in the movies. at least one.

But i think it would be nice if Gary and Paul had a fight but i know that will never happen. *sigh*

[cascade88]

Nov 4, 2008 3:21:24 GMT 12 Midnightmoon602 said:

useing money? interesting....

anyway i think Paul is MAD rival for Ash right now. but i would like Lucas (From and Diamond and Pearl game) to show in the movies. at least one.

But i think it would be nice if Gary and Paul had a fight but i know that will never happen. *sigh*

Meh, I think that Ash kind of is Lucas, in a sense. Not literally, but that that's more or less the representation he has in the games, a friend to the main character, not so much a rival. But maybe that's just me.

And a Gary/Paul battle would be pretty awesome, but seeing as Gary's more about the research, I doubt that myself. Oh well.

[Elite4James]

A Paul/Gary Battle may be unlikely but not impossible. Despite his change in vocation, I'm sure Gary would like to battle if he had something to prove. I could happen.

Nov 4, 2008 3:21:24 GMT 12 Midnightmoon602 said:

useing money? interesting....

Not actual money, it's just like in the DPPt games, he'll say you need to meet him somewhere and if you're late he says he'll fine you $1,000,000 or something. But not really, even if you are.

Jun appeared in the latest episode. It turns out he only has three badges. He also seems to idolize Paul, which grinds Ash's nerves. He also calls Dawn uncool, which annoys her. Despite this he's actually a well meaning individual.
Ash's Chimchar took down Jun's Staraptor, whilst his Roserade took out Chimchar and tied with Ash's Gliscor. Empoleon was defeated by Pikachu.
Seems like a good enough rival, stays true to the type of character he is in the games.