The Top Eight Begin

The atmosphere at the Martial Arts Tournament's main venue was even more heated than it had been over the past two days.

The stands had long since filled to capacity, and the roar of the crowd was like a tangible tsunami, endlessly crashing against the enormous arena in the center of the venue.

Xinhai sat in the competitors' viewing area, watching the second match on the arena with focused attention.

On the field were Rex from Unova and a traveling Trainer using a Machoke.

Rex's Conkeldurr stood like an immovable mountain. The heavy concrete pillar in its hands seemed weightless, yet every swing carried terrifying force capable of splitting mountains and shattering rocks.

Machoke's Trainer was clearly quite skilled as well. His Machoke moved with astonishing speed, its Sonic Power-Up Punches raining down like a storm as it strengthened the power of its fists while constantly searching for an opening in Conkeldurr's defenses.

"Machoke, seize the chance! Dynamic Punch!" Machoke's Trainer roared when he spotted the briefest stiffness after one of Conkeldurr's swings.

Machoke nimbly dodged the sweeping concrete pillar and closed in, its arm muscles bulging as Fighting energy surged into its fists.

But Rex revealed a disdainful smirk. "Conkeldurr, show them what true power is! Facade!"

"Conkeldurr!!"

Conkeldurr let out a deep growl. Facing Machoke's attack, it neither dodged nor retreated. Instead, it actually thrust its chest forward!

Just as Machoke was about to strike it, an astonishing Presence suddenly erupted from Conkeldurr's body, a savage and overwhelming strength bursting forth from within!

Bang!

Machoke's Dynamic Punch, carrying all its strength, slammed solidly into Conkeldurr's chest with a dull impact that made everyone's teeth ache!

Yet, relying on its incredible endurance and Facade, Conkeldurr forcibly endured the blow. It merely let out a pained grunt, its massive body