TL;DR
- The Masters Tournament brings together eight elite trainers in Pokemon’s most epic championship
- Ash faces legendary champions including Cynthia, Steven, and undefeated Leon
- All battle gimmicks – Mega Evolution, Z-Moves, and Gigantamax – collide for the first time
- The outcome determines Ash’s path to becoming a Pokemon Master and series future
- Strategic matchups feature regional champions with diverse battle specialties

Pokemon Journeys builds toward an unprecedented climax with the World Coronation Series Masters Tournament, assembling legendary trainers like Steven Stone, Cynthia, and the undefeated Leon for championship battles.
Every Pokemon generation concludes its anime arc differently, ranging from quiet endings to spectacular finales. As the series connected to Sword and Shield’s eighth generation, Pokemon Journeys prepares for an explosive conclusion that redefines the franchise.
Unlike recent series such as XY and Sun and Moon that concentrated heavily on specific regions, Journeys adopts a global perspective by incorporating Ash’s historical companions and competitors throughout his adventures.
This inclusive approach persists through the finale. The World Coronation Series unites the Masters 8 competitors for Pokemon’s most monumental tournament ever staged. This guide covers essential details about the Pokemon Masters Tournament including participant roster and bracket structure.
What is the World Coronation Series in Pokemon Journeys?
The World Coronation Series represents a competitive ranking framework introduced exclusively in Pokemon Journeys. Numerous iconic Pokemon figures participate as registered competitors, though this tournament format debuted specifically within this series.
Competitors earn positions based on victory outcomes against fellow participants, featuring extensive rosters of gym leaders, elite four members, and other significant characters. Since Ash began outside the World Coronation Series hierarchy, he systematically advanced through the rankings during the season. His rapid ascent involved defeating multiple notable opponents including Unova champion Iris, Sinnoh gym leader Volkner, and rising Galar star Marnie.
#アニポケ 豆知識番外編🔎
ポケモンがバトル中とてつもない力を発揮する『メガシンカ』🧬
ポケモンが一時的に巨大化する現象『ダイマックス』💪
第116話のバトルでは、
カルネの #サーナイト がメガシンカし、ワタルの #カイリュー はダイマックス🔥
2つの戦略が見られましたね👀 pic.twitter.com/ajadGKkyYN— アニメ「ポケットモンスター」公式 (@anipoke_PR) July 12, 2022
Ash successfully climbs into the World Coronation Series top eight tier, designated the Masters 8, qualifying him for the Masters Tournament championship.
Warning: Spoilers ahead for the Pokemon Journeys series.
Who is in the Pokemon Journeys Masters Tournament?
The World Coronation Series Masters Tournament in Pokemon Journeys showcases eight premier trainers, ranked in this order:
- Leon – Undefeated Galar Champion
- Cynthia – Sinnoh Region Champion
- Steven Stone – Hoenn Region Champion
- Lance – Kanto/Johto Elite Four
- Diantha – Kalos Region Champion
- Alain – Mega Evolution Specialist
- Iris – Unova Region Champion
- Ash Ketchum – Rising Challenger
The Masters Tournament distinguishes itself through several groundbreaking features. Primarily, it assembles numerous protected characters from franchise history. These legendary trainers rarely appeared vulnerable throughout the series, maintaining nearly flawless reputations.
Beyond the prestigious competitors, the tournament historically integrates all major battle mechanics simultaneously for the inaugural time. Mega evolution transformations, Z-move techniques, and Gigantamax formations will compete directly against each other.
World Coronation Series Masters Tournament Bracket in Pokemon Journeys
Organizers unveiled the World Coronation Series Masters Tournament bracket at the event commencement. The eight elite trainers entered a simple, single-elimination format to crown a champion.

The initial quarterfinal matchups feature:
- Leon versus Alain – GMax Charizard vs Mega Charizard X
- Lance against Diantha – Dragon specialist vs Fairy specialist
- Cynthia facing Iris – Veteran champion vs former traveling companion
- Steven battling Ash – Hoenn champion vs determined underdog
These pairings ensure multiple compelling battles will develop. Currently, all four quarterfinal contests concluded and two intensely anticipated matches schedule for the semifinal round. The tournament results carry enormous implications for the Pokemon franchise overall, with several seemingly invincible characters destined for defeat and potential series reinvention if Ash achieves his ultimate Pokemon master aspiration.

The Masters Tournament represents more than championship competition – it symbolizes Ash’s developmental culmination throughout the series. Each match demonstrates strategic depth beyond typical Pokemon battles, requiring competitors to adapt their techniques against unfamiliar fighting styles and gimmick combinations.
Strategic Considerations: Successful competitors must master countering opposing battle mechanics. Mega Evolution requires sustained concentration, Z-Moves demand precise timing, while Gigantamax transformations need strategic positioning. Understanding these dynamics separates elite trainers from regional champions.
The tournament’s outcome potentially reshapes the Pokemon anime’s future direction. An Ash victory could initiate series reboot or new protagonist introduction, while Leon maintaining his undefeated status reinforces traditional power structures.
For optimal viewing experience, focus on these key battle elements: type matchups, gimmick activation timing, and character development moments that reference previous series encounters.
Action Checklist
- Review each trainer’s signature Pokemon and battle style before watching matches
- Analyze type advantages in each quarterfinal pairing to predict potential outcomes
- Note how each competitor adapts their strategy against unfamiliar battle gimmicks
- Compare battle techniques to previous series appearances for character development continuity
- Track Ash’s development throughout the tournament as culmination of his journey
No reproduction without permission:Games Guides Website » Guide to the Pokemon World Coronation Series Masters Tournament Complete guide to Pokemon Journeys' epic Masters Tournament featuring Ash's ultimate championship battle
