Hitmonchan is a Fighting-type Pokémon introduced in Generation I. Known as the Punching Pokémon, it is exclusively male and has no female counterpart. Hitmonchan's appearance is inspired by a professional boxer, with a humanoid body, red boxing gloves, and a light purple tunic and kilt. It has five blunt protrusions on top of its head and structures resembling pads over its shoulders.
This Pokémon is renowned for its incredible punching speed and power. Hitmonchan can throw punches too quick to be seen with the naked eye, with some reports claiming its punches are as fast as a bullet train. Its punching prowess is so great that it can drill through concrete using a corkscrew motion. However, Hitmonchan requires a break every three minutes while fighting, which is a reference to the duration of rounds in boxing.
Hitmonchan is said to possess the spirit of a boxer who had been working towards a world championship. This gives the Pokémon an indomitable spirit, never giving up in the face of adversity. It's known for its ability to use elemental punches like Fire Punch, Ice Punch, and Thunder Punch, making it a versatile fighter.
Pokédex Data
- Height: 1.4 m (4'07")
- Weight: 50.2 kg (110.7 lbs)
- Type: Fighting
- Abilities: Keen Eye, Iron Fist, Inner Focus (Hidden)
- Species: Punching Pokémon
Breeding
- Gender Ratio: 100% male
- Egg Group: Human-Like
- Egg Cycles: 25 (approximately 6,400 steps)
Pokédex Entries Across Versions
- Red/Blue: "While apparently doing nothing, it fires punches in lightning fast volleys that are impossible to see."
- Yellow: "Punches in corkscrew fashion. It can punch its way through a concrete wall in the same way as a drill."
- Gold/Silver: "Its punches slice the air. They are launched at such high speed, even a slight graze could cause a burn."
- Ruby/Sapphire: "A Hitmonchan is said to possess the spirit of a boxer who had been working towards a world championship. This Pokémon has an indomitable spirit and will never give up in the face of adversity."
Evolutions
Hitmonchan evolves from Tyrogue starting at level 20 when Tyrogue's Defense is higher than its Attack. It is one of Tyrogue's final forms, alongside Hitmonlee and Hitmontop.
Habits and Additions Across Generations
In Generation II, Mach Punch became Hitmonchan's signature move. The Iron Fist ability, which boosts the power of punching moves, was introduced in Generation IV. In competitive play, Hitmonchan has found a niche as an offensive spinner in lower tiers, threatening many Stealth Rock setters.