In Pokémon Journeys: The Series, Ash defeats Leon to become World Champion. Their battle is the final match of the Masters Eight Tournament in the World Coronation Series, the global competition that Ash enters during his travels.
Leon is the Champion of the Galar region and is presented as the world’s strongest Trainer at the beginning of the competition. His signature partner is Charizard, while Ash’s final team includes Pikachu, whose decisive performance helps secure the victory.
Cynthia, Steven Stone and Lance are also major Champions from the Pokémon world, and all are connected with the Masters Eight storyline. However, Ash’s final opponent is Leon. The victory completes Ash’s rise from a new Trainer in Pallet Town to the series’ top-ranked battling champion.