This episode is similar to
That's Just Swellow (2004) in multiple ways: Ash enters the regional PokéRinger competition with his Flying-type Pokémon, while James enters with one of Jessie's Bug types; Both episodes involve an overconfident former champion who gets knocked out in the first round; Ash's Pokémon evolves and helps him win the contest; Ash's Pokémon hits the hoop over the goal section by hitting it with its wings in the final; Even the background music used near when they hit the ring with its wing is used in both episodes.