Ash’s newfound friend and rival arrives along with his Meowth in boots just in time to register for the Championships. When Ash comments on the shy nature of his Meowth, the boy says little, but alludes to it having had a difficult past. Later, the Meowth makes an extremely strong showing in battle against a Persian, but displays an uncharacteristic and unsportsmanlike rage, even striking out at its opponent after the battle had been called. Only then does its trainer explain that his Meowth had been ostracized by its pack and was taking a severe beating from a Persian when he first found it. Unfortunately, if his Meowth does not overcome its grudges, it may affect its standing in the Championships.