Becoming the Arena Champion

Xinhai stepped forward after driving Matsumoto Da Xiang back, then fired a swift front kick straight at his opponent's midsection, trying to press his advantage.

Though startled, Matsumoto Da Xiang did not panic. His extensive experience made him instinctively twist aside, narrowly avoiding the kick.

But Xinhai's assault came like a tide. The instant his front kick missed, he used the momentum of his turn, his right arm already sweeping out like a steel whip, crashing toward Matsumoto Da Xiang with a howling wind!

Matsumoto Da Xiang's pupils contracted. He hurriedly stepped back, the heavy swing passing almost right over the tip of his nose. The gust it raised stung his cheeks.

That was close! The thought had barely surfaced when he caught sight of the even bleaker battle unfolding beside him.

His Poliwrath was already at the end of its rope beneath Combusken's frenzied assault!

"Combusken!!"

Every one of Combusken's attacks contained all its focus and strength. Its legs were like red-hot branding irons, carrying scorching Fighting-type energy as they hammered relentlessly against Poliwrath's crossed arms.

"Poliwrath!!"

Poliwrath let out a pained growl. Its left leg was injured, limiting its movement. It could not create any distance at all and could only endure the storm of kicks passively.

Although a layer of Fighting-type energy protected its arms, they were still swelling red from the blows, and its blocking stance became increasingly distorted.

No! I have to turn this around immediately! Matsumoto Da Xiang was frantic. He knew Poliwrath would not last much longer.

Once his Pokémon lost, he would have to face Xinhai and Combusken's combined assault alone. Defeat would be inevitable! The intense sense of danger ignited his fighting spirit!

"Haah!"

Matsumoto Da Xiang suddenly roared and stopped retreating, throwing all his strength and body weight into a