There was some catchy Movie 9 music in there, too. Though I did love the random Type:Wild inclusion. But I think I very much preferred Movie 8's theme playing in the background as Buizel and Lucario fought. I just love it.
I've been waiting to see this Battle ever since the confirmation of the episode's title. Buizel and Lucario being my fave Pokemon battling? It was definitely going to be awesome, and that it was. Its interesting to note that Ash actually bothered to switch his Pokemon for specific matches, though mostly to remove confusion, but still, its a smart (and basic) move that we've rarely ever seen him do. He also chose his Pokemon much better this time, although that might have had something to do with Staravia learning Brave Bird. Though Chimchar didn't get as much action as it should have (having the advantage over Lucario) it had to be done if I ever wanted to see such an awesome battle.
True, Buizel learning water pulse was for the sake of Pulse-throwing action, but when he combined that last attack with an Aqua Jet, I couldn't help but be excited. It's nice to know he did actually learn something from Dawn.
Admittedly, Ash managed to win by pure luck yet again (the roof blowing up and rain suddenly starting was waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaay too convenient) But what the heck, it had Buizel and Lucario Pulse-throwing each other into submission, and its definitely one of Ash's coolest, and most melodramatic Gym Battles in Sinnoh so far.
On Future Episodes:
Team Lovely Fashion reveals itself next week! But argh, they made Toxicroak uglier (and Shiny?) than it needed to be. Still, a battle between it and Croagunk looks to be sweet (if not humourous and nightmare-inducing. the face! D
Also the Male Pokemon Trainer is named Hajime, apparently he'll be going on the Riolu Mission, and no doubt Hunter J's going to go after it as well. Incidentally, what are the odds Hunter J's gonna be in Battonage?